Central Bank of Tunisia Calls for Continuity of Essential Services During Sectoral Strike
The Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT) has urged banking institutions to ensure the continuity of essential services during the sectoral strike scheduled for November 3 and 4, 2025. In a circular addressed to the general managers of banks, the institution emphasized the need to guarantee the smooth operation of financial transactions and preserve the stability of the national monetary system during this period.
Maintaining Vital Public Services
The BCT, concerned with maintaining a vital public service, reminded banks of their obligation to ensure continuous access to withdrawal and electronic payment operations. It recommended that banks ensure the regular replenishment of automated teller machines (ATMs) and the good availability of technical platforms dedicated to digital payments.
Preventive Measures
Among the preventive measures requested, the BCT invites banks to stock up in advance on liquidity from its branches to cover expected withdrawals during the two-day strike. It also emphasized the need to maintain the fund transfer service in coordination with specialized companies and to set up alternative solutions if needed.
Ensuring Rapid Execution of Payment Orders
Banks are also called upon to guarantee the rapid execution of payment orders and operations processed within the framework of the interbank settlement system, while ensuring the immediate availability of necessary liquidity. The BCT stresses the importance of respecting deadlines for settling compensation operations and maintaining technical connectivity with the Tunisian Monetics Company and the Interbank Compensation Company.
Incident Management
In the event of an incident or failure, establishments must mobilize the necessary human resources to ensure a minimum of services and avoid any major disruption. The Central Bank specified that its services, including its regional representations, will remain fully mobilized to meet the urgent needs of banks, particularly for exceptional requests for cash replenishment on the same day.
Exceptional Measure
This exceptional measure derogates from the provisions of Circular No. 129 of 2024, relating to cash operations at Central Bank agencies, in order to ensure the fluidity of the banking system during the strike.
