Tunisia is mounting a major comeback in the global phosphate market, targeting 9.4 million tons by 2035 through a 2.7 billion dinar investment strategy to revitalize the Gafsa Phosphate Company and Tunisian Chemical Group.
Tunisia has unveiled a bold strategy to reclaim its status as a world leader in the phosphate and phosphate derivatives sector, aiming to nearly triple its current production levels over the next decade.
Speaking at the 5th Egyptian Mining Forum (EMF 2026) in Egypt, Minister of Public Works and Housing Slah Zouari—who oversees the Industry, Mines, and Energy portfolio—confirmed the government’s commitment to revitalizing the sector. The forum, held on September 28-29, attracted over 6,000 visitors and 500 high-level guests, including ministers and international investors from 50 countries.
At the heart of the initiative is a development plan announced by the Gafsa Phosphate Company (CPG) and the Tunisian Chemical Group (GCT) . The strategy aims to boost commercial phosphate production to 9.4 million tons by 2035, backed by investments estimated at 2.7 billion dinars.
To achieve this, stakeholders coordinated by the Prime Ministry are working to remove bottlenecks that have hampered the sector for years. Production targets are set at 4.5 million tons in 2026 and 5 million tons in 2028.
The plan represents a significant leap from the past decade, where CPG’s commercial phosphate production averaged between 3.2 million and 3.4 million tons annually. By contrast, Tunisia produced around 8.2 million tons per year prior to 2011.
Overcoming Obstacles and Restructuring
The road to recovery requires addressing critical challenges, including transportation issues, water shortages for phosphate washing, and financial difficulties. The GCT is specifically grappling with aging equipment and cash-flow pressures.
A Strategic Vision for 2035
The restructuring program focuses on maintaining facilities, securing supplies, and accelerating the “Mdhilla 2” project. Both CPG and GCT have announced urgent measures to improve their financial situations and implement a realistic strategy to revive the phosphate sector.
Regional Integration and Mineral Diversity
Minister Zouari emphasized that the mining sector is a key pillar of the Tunisian economy, citing the country’s diverse resources, including lead, zinc, iron, salt, and potash.
He called for greater complementarity between the public and private sectors and increased exchanges of expertise among African and Arab countries, particularly in processing and refining. Tunisia advocates for strengthening local value chains to support high-value-added industries, reduce dependence on imported inputs, and create new export opportunities.
The EMF 2026 event served as a platform for over 100 companies to showcase the latest mining technologies and solutions, highlighting the role of digital geological data and incentives in attracting both Tunisian and foreign private investors.
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