Tunisia and Libya’s bold plan to transform African trade

Tunisia is positioning itself as a key trade hub for Africa, with ambitious plans for a trans-Saharan trade route linking North Africa with sub-Saharan markets.

Speaking at the “Regional Export Mornings” forum in Sfax, the Minister for Trade and Export Development announced the government’s vision for a “Libya-Tunisia-Africa” corridor.

This ambitious project would establish a trade route stretching south from Tunisia, through Libya, to five landlocked nations: Chad, Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic.

The Minister described the corridor as central to the government’s strategy for boosting exports, predicting it would become the continent’s largest overland trade route.

It would facilitate the smooth movement of goods and strengthen economic ties between North and sub-Saharan Africa, positioning Tunisia as a key player in regional trade.

A series of measures aimed at making Tunisia a more attractive trading partner were also outlined. These include implementing the World Trade Organisation’s trade facilitation agreement to modernise customs procedures and reduce bureaucratic delays.

Furthermore, the government plans to overhaul its Easy Export programme to provide greater support to Tunisian businesses seeking to sell their goods abroad.

Recognising the need for a supportive legal framework, the Minister announced plans to revise laws governing foreign trade and the Export Promotion Fund.

He also stressed the importance of efficient distribution networks, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving how goods are transported to markets.

These measures demonstrate Tunisia’s commitment to creating a dynamic and competitive trading environment. By encouraging exports and attracting investment, these efforts will drive economic growth and solidify Tunisia’s position as a gateway to Africa.