Tunisia recorded a sharp rebound in investments last year, with declared volumes jumping 39.3% to 8,356.4 million dinars (around $2.7 billion), according to the 2025 annual report released Monday by the Tunisia Investment Authority (TIA). The surge is expected to generate 101,681 new jobs, a 5% increase from 2024.
Services lead job creation, renewables gain ground
The services sector emerged as the country’s primary employment engine, accounting for nearly 60,000 positions—or 59% of total projected jobs. Investments in services soared 75% to 1,755.4 MDT ($566 million), signaling a structural shift in the economy.
Meanwhile, renewable energy projects consolidated their strategic weight, attracting 1,685.1 MDT ($544 million)—a fifth of total investments—in line with Tunisia’s 2035 energy roadmap.
Though industry saw a temporary 14.3% dip in volume, it remains a cornerstone of the economy. The sector drew 2,924.7 MDT ($943 million), or 35% of all declared investments, and is set to deliver 39% of new jobs.
Agriculture resilient, tourism in turbo drive
Agriculture posted an 11.6% rise to 1,347.5 MDT ($435 million), reflecting steady resilience. But the real outlier was tourism: investment in the sector skyrocketed 238%, buoyed by a single 300 MDT ($97 million) mega-project in Jendouba.
New projects dominate; foreign capital holds 35% share
Startups and new ventures captured 74% of total investment, underscoring Tunisia’s growing appeal for fresh capital. Extension projects by existing firms, while smaller in volume, signal sustained investor confidence.
On the regional front, over 71% of investments flowed into just ten governorates — led by Sidi Bouzid, Tunis, and Gabès. Zone de développement régional areas alone absorbed 54% of capital, largely driven by renewable energy schemes.
Domestic investors accounted for 65% of total commitments and the lion’s share of job creation, while foreign participation stood at 35%.
National Interest Projects take centre stage
The TIA report also highlighted 14 “National Interest Projects” that together represent nearly a third (32%) of total declared investments, mainly in renewables, industry, tourism, and services — a sign of growing public-private alignment on strategic priorities.
TunisianMonitorOnline (NejiMed)
