Tunisia eyes India as key economic partner
India stands poised to become a major economic partner for Tunisia during this critical phase of the country’s development while it seeks to gain worldwide alliances, as reported by African Manager on August 6th.
With rapid advances in industry, finance, and high technology, India has built a dynamic economy grounded in human capital, scientific innovation, and consistent effort.
The Export Promotion Center (CEPEX) estimates that untapped export potential to India stands at $214 million. While bilateral trade reached $800 million (2.4 billion dinars) last year, CEPEX believes far more can be achieved—particularly in high-value-added sectors. In a recent meeting, CEPEX CEO Mourad Ben Hassine and Indian Ambassador Shri Ngulkham Jathom highlighted the need to reinforce collaboration in priority industries.
Key sectors for future partnership include chemicals and fertilisers, especially given Tunisia’s phosphoric acid production in Skhira, alongside pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, electronics, and agriculture. Tunisian exports to India have already shown promising growth: olive oil exports surged by 250% and dates rose by 56%, reflecting rising demand for Tunisian products.
Tunisia’s imports from India remain diverse and expanding. Car and spare part imports alone accounted for 356 million dinars, 18% of Tunisia’s total imports from India. Pharmaceutical imports jumped by 637%, while other imports further illustrate Tunisia’s growing openness to Indian goods.
India now ranks as Tunisia’s 9th largest trading partner by import volume and 16th by exports. CEPEX sees strong potential to deepen trade ties and explore new sectors.
The Indian Ambassador reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation. She urged stronger links between CEPEX and its Indian counterpart, including business forums, trade missions, and joint sectoral initiatives.
Both sides also discussed activating the 2017 memorandum of understanding, planning a virtual forum, and preparing for the upcoming Joint Commission to resolve customs and tax challenges.
African Manager, Maghrebi.org
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