Tunis:The Tunisian economy has demonstrated resilience against both external and internal pressures, maintaining a steady recovery throughout 2026, according to Prime Minister Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri. The Prime Minister presented the government's statement on the draft Economic Budget and the draft State Budget during a joint plenary session between the Assembly of People's Representatives (ARP) and the National Council of Regions and Districts (CNRD).
According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, despite various crises and risks arising from regional and international geopolitical tensions, Tunisia's economy has continued to recover gradually. Zenzri attributed this achievement to policies implemented over the past decades, despite their exhausting effects on public institutions and enterprises.
The implementation of the 2026 budget faced challenges due to global economic and geopolitical instability, particularly from the Middle East crisis. These challenges were marked by high levels of uncertainty, slowing growth, rising inflation, and a widening digital and technological gap. The energy and commodity markets experienced sharp volatility, leading to increased prices, especially fuel prices. These factors placed additional pressure on Tunisia's economy, alongside internal issues like climate conditions and energy demands from unprecedented heatwaves.
Zenzri highlighted the positive performance of key sectors, particularly agriculture and services, as drivers of economic resilience. The agricultural sector benefited from improved grain and oilseed production, while the services sector saw recovery due to tourism. Consequently, Tunisia's GDP grew by 2.4% in the first half of 2026, with a slight decrease in unemployment and stable inflation rates compared to 2025.
Exports rose by 8% by the end of August 2026, driven by growth in the energy, agricultural, and mechanical and electrical engineering sectors. Tourism revenue increased by 4.5% up to September 30, 2026, and remittances from Tunisians abroad also saw a 5% increase. Despite mounting pressures, Tunisia maintained its external commitments and foreign exchange reserves, reflecting its ability to withstand economic challenges.
Looking ahead, Tunisia expects a growth rate of 2.7% for the whole of 2026 and an investment rate of 15.5% of GDP. The current account deficit is projected to reach 3.9% of GDP, with an annual inflation rate of 5.3%. These indicators suggest continued positive momentum in national economic activity, bolstering the economy's adaptability to changes and market fluctuations.