EU Absorbs Over 70% of Tunisian Exports in First Half of 2026

The European Union continues to be Tunisia's most significant trading partner, accounting for more than two-thirds of the country's exports during the first six months of 2026. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS), Tunisian exports to EU countries totaled 24.375 billion dinars, a notable increase from 22.348 billion dinars in the same period of 2025.

This sustained trade flow underscores the strategic importance of the European market for Tunisian businesses, particularly in the industrial, mechanical, electrical, and agri-food sectors. Within the EU, France and Italy are Tunisia's leading European commercial partners. Exports to France saw an 8.6% rise, while those to Italy grew by 5.5%. However, trade with other European nations showed mixed results, with exports to Germany experiencing a slight decrease of 0.5% and a more significant drop of 27.4% to Greece.

Beyond Europe, Tunisian exporters have achieved remarkable success in several Arab markets. Exports to Egypt surged by an impressive 104.8%, and those to Saudi Arabia increased by 52.4%. This positive trend contrasts sharply with declines observed in some North African markets, including a 26.2% decrease in exports to Morocco, 18.7% to Algeria, and 3.9% to Libya.

The EU also maintains a dominant position in Tunisia's imports, though its share is smaller than in exports. Imports from the EU reached 21.196 billion dinars in the first half of 2026, up from 18.354 billion dinars in the same period of 2025, representing 44.9% of Tunisia's total imports. Purchases from France grew by 18.5%, and from Italy by 13.7%. Outside the EU, suppliers such as Turkey and India have strengthened their presence in the Tunisian market.