The Importance of Enterprises in Job Creation and Economic Growth
It is undeniable, up to this day, that enterprises play a crucial role in creating jobs and economic wealth. However, enterprises, regardless of their form, still evolve in an environment marked by numerous obstacles.
The Constrained Business Climate in Tunisia
As revealed by the results of analyses from the first edition of the National Report on Enterprise in Tunisia, conducted by the IACE, the Tunisian business climate remains constraining. This report, in its first publication, shows that these obstacles do not affect all enterprises in the same way. The size, sector of activity, and level of formalization are determining factors.
Financing: A Long-Standing Challenge
The first obstacle, widely discussed for a long time and still persisting today, is access to financing. It is one of the main challenges faced by enterprises, as highlighted in the report. More specifically, many enterprises, mainly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), believe that obtaining credit remains a complex process, marked by high requirements and sometimes deterrent costs. These enterprises consider that this situation is due to limited guarantees and often fragile relationships with the banking system. Moreover, large enterprises, although better structured, are not spared, particularly when it comes to financing large-scale projects.
An Unequal Market
Informal practices and corruption continue to weaken the economic fabric, particularly for SMEs. They favor unfair competition and increase hidden costs for enterprises that respect the rules. In this context, small-sized structures appear more vulnerable, with fewer resources to cope with administrative pressures or market irregularities.
Shortage of Skilled Labor
The lack of skilled labor is a significant obstacle, particularly for large enterprises that need specialized skills to remain competitive. This is added to a labor regulation often considered rigid and complex, which limits the ability of enterprises to adapt quickly to market changes.
Investment Hampered by Taxation
Political and fiscal instability strongly influences investment decisions. The lack of medium- and long-term visibility discourages private initiative and hinders enterprise development. High or unpredictable tax rates reinforce this uncertainty, especially for formal enterprises.
Other Challenges
Infrastructure constraints, particularly in transportation, represent a major obstacle for enterprises. They affect especially those whose activity depends on extended logistics chains, leading to increased costs and decreased competitiveness in national and international markets.
The Need for Targeted Public Policies
In light of these findings, experts emphasize the need for better-targeted public policies. Support for exporting enterprises, the revival of the industrial sector, and accompaniment of service enterprises appear as essential levers. The modernization of management tools and the digitization of procedures can also strengthen transparency, reduce informal practices, and improve the overall efficiency of the entrepreneurial fabric.
A Differentiated Approach to Improving the Business Climate
Improving the business climate cannot be limited to a uniform approach. Challenges vary according to the size and type of enterprise. A differentiated strategy, based on reliable data and coherent structural reforms, is essential to stimulate growth, investment, and employment in a sustainable manner.
Comprehensive Analysis of Enterprises
It is worth noting that the report analyzes all forms of enterprises, including microenterprises, SMEs, large enterprises, public enterprises, and community enterprises, and provides a clear diagnosis of the challenges and development levers.
