Tunisia's Ratification of New EU Rules of Origin: A Crucial Step for Exports and Market Positioning
The ratification by Tunisia of the new rules of origin set by the European Union is a decisive step for its exports and positioning in the European market, according to a note titled "EU-Tunisia Rules of Origin: Economic Stakes and Scope of Ratification," published by the IACE on January 9, 2026. This ratification ensures the sustainability of the benefits obtained in 2025, particularly for the textile and clothing sector, which is already facing structural difficulties.
Economic Benefits
According to economic estimates, the ratification allows for the preservation of nearly 150,000 jobs in the textile industry and secures approximately 3 billion dinars in net export revenue per year. Specific quotas for certain products such as jeans, T-shirts, and dresses, as well as exemptions from customs duties, are maintained. This avoids the application of a 12% customs duty that could have been applied without ratification. In a context of a 2% decline in value added and a 1.8% decline in exports in 2025, this decision provides an economic stabilizer for one of the country's most strategic industrial sectors.
Structural Benefits
The revised rules of origin also offer structural benefits. Indeed, the accumulation of origin can now include inputs from several Mediterranean countries, which reduces constraints for exporters and allows them to strengthen their competitiveness against other producing countries. Administrative procedures for certifying the "origin" status of products are simplified, facilitating access to the European market and reducing logistical and regulatory costs.
Strengthening Tunisia's Role in the Euro-Mediterranean Space
Beyond the sectoral benefits, the ratification strengthens Tunisia's role as a strategic partner in the Euro-Mediterranean space. It secures the legal and commercial framework of the EU-Tunisia association agreement, offering more predictability to businesses and encouraging integration into regional supply chains.
A Solid Partnership
This ratification is part of the dynamic of a solid partnership built on over three decades of cooperation between Tunisia and the European Union. It represents a true lever for strengthening the competitiveness of the Tunisian economy. In summary, it protects established exports, contributes to preserving jobs and securing foreign exchange earnings, while offering a stable framework for developing other industrial sectors.
