Interest-free honor loans: Are Tunisians already in debt eligible?

Moez Bayoudh, an expert in banking affairs, has called for greater clarity from the Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT) regarding the eligibility criteria for new interest-free "honor" loans. He specifically seeks clarification on whether individuals with existing bank commitments can benefit from this financing mechanism.

Bayoudh stated that those already servicing loans might be eligible for these honor loans, provided their monthly debt payments do not exceed 40% of their salary. This condition aims to ensure that borrowers maintain a sustainable repayment capacity and to prevent over-indebtedness. He emphasized that the Tunisian Post Office is not among the institutions authorized to grant these loans.

The "honor" loan program is regulated by Decree No. 148 of 2026, published on July 23, 2026, in the Official Gazette of the Tunisian Republic. This decree outlines the conditions and criteria for awarding micro-financing on honor. The initiative is designed to facilitate access to funding for various groups, including individuals, project leaders, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and community-based enterprises.

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people with existing loans could access this type of financing, provided that the debt ratio related to monthly deductions does not exceed 40% of the salary.

Financing limits vary based on the beneficiary category. SMEs and community enterprises can access up to 25,000 dinars, project leaders up to 10,000 dinars, and individuals seeking funds for consumption needs can receive up to 5,000 dinars. The publication of the implementing text marks a significant step in operationalizing this mechanism, which has generated considerable discussion in Tunisian media.

Bayoudh stressed that clear communication of these criteria is essential to inform citizens accurately and ensure a comprehensive understanding of how these loans are granted. The goal is to provide financial support under specific regulatory conditions, fostering greater financial inclusion.

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The Tunisian Post Office is not concerned with the granting of these financings, unlike the institutions authorized to intervene within the framework of the device.