From Production to Innovation: The Next Chapter in Franco-Tunisian Economic Cooperation

With 1,612 French-invested companies active in Tunisia and over 170,000 direct jobs generated, the economic relationship between the two nations has long transcended simple commercial proximity. It has become deeply embedded in Tunisia’s industrial fabric. Today, the next chapter of this partnership may be written beyond the confines of production lines alone.

This strategic shift was highlighted by Manuel Bufala, Senior Counselor at the French Embassy in Tunisia, during the opening of the 4th African ESG Summit. “We want to go even further,” he stated, referring to industrial cooperation between the two countries.

The momentum is already visible. Since September, several French companies have come to Tunisia not to set up production workshops—as was common two decades ago—but to establish research and innovation centers. They are specifically seeking to leverage the expertise of Tunisian engineers in Research & Development (R&D) while creating new employment opportunities.

This shift is far from anecdotal. In the first half of 2026, French direct investments in Tunisia reached 440.75 million dinars, with 241 projects creating 2,680 jobs. Industry remains the primary sector for these investments, particularly in electrical-electronics, mechanical-metallurgy, plastics, and textile-apparel.

For Manuel Bufala, this industrial presence can now gain in added value. The ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) agenda fits squarely into this evolution, as environmental, social, and governance criteria play an increasingly significant role in market and regulatory decisions.

Consequently, Franco-Tunisian cooperation is no longer solely centered on production. Training, innovation, and skills development have become key pillars of a partnership poised to take a significant step forward.

France and Tunisia are already working on this transition. Since 2024, the Tunisian-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been focusing on the “mission-driven company” model and how to reconcile economic, social, and environmental objectives.

Another upcoming event is set to extend this dialogue. Manuel Bufala announced that a forum organized with Expertise France will be held in Tunis on December 8 and 9 (subject to confirmation). The forum will address a highly industrial question: How to increase the added value of partnerships between French and Tunisian companies? Training and innovation are expected to be at the heart of the discussions.

The case of FigeacAero already illustrates this direction. Since September, the group has accelerated the establishment of a training center in the Mghira aerospace hub. Once again, local skills are at the center of the initiative.

For the representative of the French Embassy, the goal remains to build “win-win” partnerships, but with a broader ambition. It is no longer just about producing in Tunisia for export. It is also about developing skills, designing, innovating, and creating greater value within the country.

“We still have a lot to build,” he confessed.