Tunisia

Tunisia’s strategic proximity to Europe, sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East, coupled with free-trade agreements and an educated workforce, bolsters the country’s commercial strength and foreign investment appeal. Tunisia’s economy is also relatively well-diversified, spanning sectors such as agribusiness, automotive, aerospace, infrastructure, renewable energy, telecommunication technologies, and tourism. Furthermore, this country of about 12 million people boasts valuable agricultural and mineral resources.

Still, Tunisia faces significant challenges. In 2011, the country was at the heart of a series of popular uprisings calling for political freedom, economic opportunity and social justice that spread quickly throughout the region. However, in recent years, President Kais Saied has attempted to reimpose certain aspects of authoritarian rule. The concentration of power in the presidency, coupled with an excessively large state-owned sector and numerous bureaucratic hurdles, continue to stifle Tunisia’s economic potential. Additionally, high unemployment and social inequalities continue to fuel unrest, while security issues related to Islamist militant groups along the borders with Algeria and Libya impact tourism.