Kasbah: A Cabinet meeting was held on Wednesday at the Government Palace in Kasbah, chaired by Prime Minister Sara Zaafrani Zenzri, to review the main outlines of the 2026 Finance Law and State Budget. In her opening remarks, the Prime Minister emphasised that the 2026 Finance Law must embody a strategic vision, serving as a tool to implement public policies under the state's economic and social programme. This programme aims to balance economic growth and social justice, aligning with the 2026-2030 Development Plan, which will reflect the will of the people.
According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, the Prime Minister stressed that national choices are the only way to meet people's expectations, particularly by revising a number of laws relating to taxation and social justice, and by reopening public sector recruitment to address unemployment. She underscored the need for a new approach in drafting the 2026 Finance Law, one that moves beyond temporary fixes and half-measures. Instead, it should reflect the state's vision which consists in strengthening the foundations of the social state, while ensuring fiscal justice and social equity, boosting purchasing power, balancing economic growth with social justice, and increasing the rate of economic growth by stimulating investment and establishing an appropriate social and economic framework for the construction and building phase.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that all state's economic policies must adhere to core principles, including preserving national sovereignty and independent decision-making, self-reliance. At the same time, the state must remain open to Tunisia's regional and international environment in order to support and consolidate national decisions regarding the social role of the state and the promotion of local, regional, and territorial development.
The Cabinet meeting outlined several priorities for the 2026 budget, focusing on strengthening the Social State through expanding support for vulnerable and low-income groups, developing the state's own resources by reducing tax evasion and integrating the informal economy, and promoting employment and social protection. Furthermore, it emphasized promoting investment, regional development, and accelerating digital transformation to modernize administration and support the digital economy.
The draft is based on principles aimed at strengthening the pillars of the social state, maintaining financial balance, and improving the efficiency of public performance. It includes simplifying procedures for Tunisians abroad, supporting start-ups, and financing companies in the green, blue, and circular economy sectors.