Since the 2011 revolution which saw the departure of Ben Ali, Tunisia has, unfortunately, suffered from a series of setbacks (terrorist attacks on the tourist sector, a wait-and-see attitude by investors concerned about the election results, the war in Libya which is a neighbour and significant economic partner, the coronavirus crisis, etc.) which have each had a negative impact on the economy.

In practice, the essential sectors of the Tunisian economy remain agriculture, tourism and offshore industry, primarily active in the textiles, electrical parts and automotive sectors.

Both tourism and industry have suffered greatly from the COVID-19 pandemic. It is estimated that tourism fell by 77% between 2019 and 2020. The textile and automotive industries have also declined by 20%, however, they are hoping for a recovery that will limit their losses.

Nevertheless, the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the Tunisian economy’s heavy reliance on European demand.

In addition, the main business sectors will require an in-depth reworking in the short-term (tourism) or medium term (industry) if Tunisia expects to recover and grow in the coming years.

The tourism industry will have to change. Historically, it has been virtually completely based on all-inclusive seaside resort tourism. The offering will have to diversify and go upmarket. European and American aid is providing support for this change to a more sustainable form of tourism.