Tunisia and Italy Sign Strategic Accord to Boost Business Internationalization

Tunisia and Italy are strengthening their economic ties with a new strategic agreement designed to accelerate the internationalization of Italian businesses within the Tunisian market. The landmark protocol was signed between four key institutions: Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), Simest, SACE, and the Tunisian-Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CTCI).

The agreement, finalized during the Tunisia-Italy Economic and Entrepreneurial Forum in Tunis, establishes a joint framework to support and structure the expansion of Italian companies looking to invest or grow their operations in Tunisia. It leverages the combined expertise and tools of the partner institutions to simplify market access and overcome internationalization hurdles.

Specifically, the protocol outlines plans for joint information, training, and networking activities. These will include specialized workshops, thematic seminars, institutional missions, and direct business-to-business meetings. The goal is to foster stronger exchanges and more effectively identify investment opportunities. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to simplify access to financial instruments and concessional financing mechanisms for companies pursuing international growth.

Italian institutions view Tunisia as a strategic market at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, aiming to enhance their economic presence. The partnership also intends to consolidate industrial value chains and promote joint investments in high-potential sectors. The forum itself brought together over 160 Italian representatives from more than 110 organizations and over 300 Tunisian economic operators, discussing key sectors like energy transition, digital transformation, advanced industry, and logistics.