AGP Executive Report

Customs Modernisation: Tunisia has plugged an AI module into its national customs risk system to flag high-risk shipments, cut routine manual checks and speed up cargo clearance, with “Sinda 2” digital integration planned to roll out in phases through end-2026. Education Access: Béja opened the first regional branch of the Second Chance School under the Education Ministry, targeting 12–18 year-olds who left school early, with capacity for 500 learners a year. Jobs & Skills: Sfax hosted the trainee entrepreneur competition semi-finals, with 95 vocational trainees pitching projects across nine governorates and 20 ideas set to move to the next stage. Trade & Industry: Tunisia-Japan parliamentary talks highlighted a push to deepen cooperation in industry, trade and technology, including AI and expertise transfer. Food & Livelihoods: Medenine launched solidarity markets ahead of Eid to protect purchasing power, offering preferential prices on key agricultural goods and sacrificial animals.

Tax Freedom Day: In the US, “Tax Freedom Day” lands on May 22 as the average taxpayer is estimated to work 142 days to cover annual taxes, with the overall tax burden rising over decades from about 30% to 38% of GDP. Tunisia—Climate Finance: Tunisia says it needs $29bn for 2026-2035 to adapt to climate shocks, with water ($10.7bn) and agriculture/food ($8bn) taking the biggest share. Tunisia—Olive Oil Exports: CIBA has launched its Terra Delyssa extra virgin olive oil brand in Nigeria, starting with Lagos and Abuja and rolling out flavors like lemon, garlic and chili. Education & Jobs: Béja opened a Second Chance School branch for 12-18 year-olds, targeting 500 beneficiaries a year, while Sfax hosted trainee entrepreneur semi-finals with 95 project ideas competing for 20 spots. World Cup Backlash: In the US, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani secured 1,000 $50 World Cup tickets after pushing FIFA on pricing. Tunisia—Markets: Medenine set up solidarity markets ahead of Eid to protect purchasing power with preferential prices.

US–Morocco Military Ties: Morocco and the United States are deepening their alliance after AFRICOM exercises on Moroccan soil, signaling a longer-term security push. Sanctions Reversal: The US Treasury lifted sanctions on UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese after a judge said the measures likely targeted her free speech. Cybercrime Crackdown: The FBI shut down an India-linked tech-support scam network that stole millions from elderly Americans, with two US executives pleading guilty for enabling the fraud. Regional Trade Momentum: South Africa points to early AfCFTA gains as exports and imports start moving both ways across the bloc. Tunisia Business Watch: On the Tunis Stock Exchange, Q1 2026 revenues rose to 6.4bn dinars, led by the financial sector and BIAT’s strong performance. Hajj Support: Tunisia’s Fidaa Foundation backed 21 pilgrims from martyrs’ families for the 2026 Hajj, with selection starting last October. Olive Oil Exports: Terra Delyssa entered Nigeria, rolling out flavored extra virgin olive oil via supermarkets and e-commerce.

US-Tunisia Diplomatic Ripples: The US removed UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese from its sanctions list after a judge said the measures likely violated her free-speech rights, a move that also spotlights her Tunisia-based role and her Gaza-related ICC push. Tunisia Governance Watch: President Kaïs Saïed made an unannounced inspection tour in Nabeul, flagging irregularities over public property and scrutinising the long-stalled Nabeul–Kélibia road, while ordering urgent renovation for Béni Khiar’s preparatory school. Cybersecurity in the Region: Interpol’s “Operation Ramz” involved 13 MENA countries including Tunisia, leading to 201 arrests, 53 servers seized, and 3,867 victims identified. Energy & Connectivity: Tunisia’s electricity output rose 7% by end-March, while Tunis ranked 106th globally for mobile internet speed—another reminder that infrastructure gaps still bite. Business & Markets: Tunis Stock Exchange Q1 indicators show revenue up 4% to 6.4bn dinars, with Tunindex20 firms driving most of the total.

Presidential Oversight: President Kaïs Saïed made an unannounced tour in Nabeul, flagging irregularities over public property and pushing for urgent fixes, including a call to start immediate renovations at Béni Khiar preparatory school. Infrastructure Pressure: The Nabeul–Kélibia road project—funded but started in 2018—was singled out for scrutiny after long delays. Cyber Enforcement: Tunisia also featured in Interpol’s cross-region crackdown, Operation Ramz, which across 13 MENA countries led to 201 arrests, 382 more suspects identified, and nearly 4,000 victims notified. Energy Snapshot: Electricity output rose 7% by end-March to 4,493 GWh, with STEG still producing 92% and renewables at 7.3%. Digital Economy: Tunisia’s mobile internet lags further—Tunis ranked 106th globally for mobile speed in the latest Ookla index update.

World Cup Business: FIFA resale prices are sliding ahead of the 2026 tournament, with the average resale ticket down 23% over the past month in the US—yet the “get-in” average still sits around $558, keeping affordability tight. Tunisia’s Tech Push: Tunisia is getting more attention for IT nearshoring, especially from German firms, as the country markets qualified talent, proximity to Europe and lower costs. Cybersecurity: INTERPOL wrapped up Operation Ramz across 13 MENA countries, arresting 201 people and identifying hundreds more after a crackdown on phishing and malware networks that also hit Tunisia. Energy Watch: Tunisia’s electricity output rose 7% by end-March, while crude oil production fell 13%—a mixed energy picture as the country balances supply and imports. Climate & Water: AfDB and Tunisia are urging a shift from emergency drought responses to long-term resilience planning, with a $55bn climate roadmap unveiled. Tourism Pressure: Middle East conflict is still reshaping travel choices, with Europeans shifting closer to home and Tunisia’s Djerba seeing slower bookings.

Cybersecurity Crackdown: INTERPOL’s Operation Ramz netted 201 arrests across 13 MENA countries, including Tunisia, targeting phishing and malware scams; 53 servers were seized and 3,867 victims identified. Insurtech Push: Tunisian startup EYST secured six-figure funding from 216 Capital to speed insurance claims via instant virtual bank cards, with plans to expand across Europe, the US, the Middle East and beyond. Telecom & Tourism Tech: Orange Tunisie extended its managed Wi‑Fi contract with El Mouradi, rolling out better hotel connectivity to support digital services. Digital Governance Race: Tunisia’s Faysal Bayouli is among candidates for the African Telecommunications Union secretary-general role, with elections set for July 2026 in Abuja. Climate Finance: Tunisia unveiled NDC 3.0, a $55bn plan (2026–2035) prioritising water and agriculture to cut emissions and limit climate risks. EU Supply Rules: EU lawmakers are reportedly drafting rules to force firms to source key components from at least three suppliers to reduce dependence on China.

Climate & Water Security: Tunisia unveiled “NDC 3.0”, a $55bn climate roadmap for 2026-2035, putting water and agriculture at the top as officials warn the economy could shrink by 3.4% by 2030 without urgent action. Migration & Reintegration: IOM says 22,377 irregular migrants have benefited from Tunisia’s voluntary return and reintegration programme since 2022, with 2,103 returns already recorded in 2026 and about 400 more planned. Industry & Jobs: Sousse moved to fast-track a German Zollner expansion in Enfidha, targeting 3,000 jobs by 2030 after a first phase with 100 staff. Digital & Security: Tunisia is also in the wider MENA push against cybercrime, after a regional INTERPOL operation led to 201 arrests. Local Services: Djerba’s Erriadh 4146 post office reopened after renovation and now includes an ATM. World Cup Logistics: The US waived visa bond requirements for eligible 2026 World Cup players, officials and ticketed fans—an easing that could matter for Tunisian supporters.

World Cup Visa Shake-up: The U.S. has waived costly visa bond requirements for eligible FIFA World Cup 2026 travelers, including qualified fans registered via FIFA’s PASS and certain team members—an abrupt policy reversal after backlash over deposits up to $15,000. Cybersecurity: A major MENA-linked operation led to 201 arrests in a first-of-its-kind INTERPOL-coordinated cybercrime crackdown, while new reporting warns AI is lowering the barrier for DDoS attacks across Africa. Tunisia’s Economy & Politics: Hundreds protested in Tunis against President Kais Saied, citing economic strain, arrests, and pressure on judicial independence and press freedom. Industry & Innovation: Tunisia is pushing ahead with new industrial fairs and tech growth—SAPRI 2026 is set for Kram, and insurtech startup EYST secured funding to speed up claims payments. Blue Economy & Tourism: Tunisia advanced its coastal tourism and maritime strategy, highlighting marinas and eco-tourism plans. Transport: Rail service resumed on the Sahel line after an earlier electric cable fault.

Blue Economy Push: Tunisia is moving to turn its coastline into a growth engine, with a new coastal tourism and “blue economy” strategy built around marinas, eco- and scientific tourism, and island projects tied to renewable energy and sustainable transport. Digital ID Watch: A new report says several African states have advanced digital identity laws beyond parts of the G7, but warns implementation often falls short of the protections promised on paper. Rights Under Pressure: Tunisia’s Palestinian solidarity campaigners say detained organizers face charges and call for their release, as protests also continue over arrests and the economic squeeze. Transport Update: Rail service on the Sahel line between Monastir and Sousse Bab Jedid has resumed after an electric cable fault. Tech & Services: Tebourba’s first Digital Services House is now operating, with more planned nationwide. Economy Snapshot: GDP grew 2.6% year-on-year in Q1 2026, while imports rose faster than exports.

Tunisia Protests: Hundreds of Tunisians marched in central Tunis on Saturday, denouncing President Kais Saied’s arrests of opposition figures and journalists, and warning that the economic crisis is deepening—prices up, medicine and food shortages, and public services under strain. Parliament Watch: Lawmakers are set to examine revisions to the Penal Code and the narcotics law, as the country debates tougher deterrence versus prevention. Public Services: Transport authorities laid out special bus and metro arrangements for Sunday’s teacher recruitment exams in Tunis. Digital Push: Tebourba’s first Digital Services House officially opened, with more planned to reach 34 facilities by next June. Economy Snapshot: Tunisia reported 2.6% GDP growth in Q1 2026, driven by domestic demand, while trade weighed on the result. Business Calendar: Tunisia will host the IFSA Africa food industry and packaging trade fair from June 9–11 in Tunis.

Protests & Arrests: Hundreds of Tunisians marched in central Tunis on Saturday, denouncing President Kais Saied’s “one-man rule,” the detention of opposition figures, journalists and civil society, and a worsening economic squeeze marked by rising prices, medicine shortages and weaker public services. Judicial Independence Under Pressure: The bar association is calling strikes over what it says is declining judicial independence, while the journalists’ union prepares protests against imprisonment and tighter press freedom. Penal Code & Drugs Law: Parliament’s General Legislation Committee is set to hold a May 18 hearing on draft amendments to the Penal Code and a revision of the 1992 law on drug-related offences. Public Services: Tunisia’s transport company is running a special plan for Sunday’s teacher recruitment exams in Tunis/La Manouba. Economy Snapshot: GDP grew 2.6% year-on-year in Q1 2026, but imports rose faster than exports, weighing on the external balance.

World Cup Travel Relief: The Trump administration has waived visa deposits of up to $15,000 for World Cup ticket holders from Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia, but only for fans registered via FIFA’s Fifa Pass system by April 15—still leaving many facing high travel costs and other entry hurdles. Tunisia Digital Push: Tebourba’s first Digital Services House officially opened, with 26 services from seven public institutions, as the government targets 34 houses by next June. Health Insurance Pressure: Tunisia’s private pharmacy owners warn that delays in CNAM payments could disrupt medicine supply, calling for a binding payment schedule and emergency support. Business Climate Debate: Parliament’s Finance and Budget Committee held hearings on the draft Foreign Exchange Code, with lawmakers stressing the need for clearer “resident” and “non-resident” rules. Regional Connectivity: A new Atlantic subsea cable plan, Via Africa, aims to boost Europe-Africa bandwidth and resilience, with Tunis among the targeted markets.

World Cup Politics & Tunisia’s Stance: Tunisia renewed its call for Palestine to be granted full UN membership as it marks the 78th anniversary of the Nakba on May 15, amid ongoing Gaza restrictions and violations. World Cup Squad Shock: Tunisia’s coach Sabri Lamouchi has made a major decision by dropping captain Ferjani Sassi and key defender Yassine Meriah from the 26-man squad, setting a new tone ahead of the June 11 kickoff. Digital Services Push: Tebourba (Manouba) opened the region’s first Digital Services House, with 26 services from seven public institutions, as the government targets 34 houses by next June. Health System Pressure: Private pharmacies warn of CNAM payment delays, urging a binding payment schedule to avoid medicine supply disruptions. Cash & Payments: Tunisia’s central bank told banks and the National Post Office to improve cash management for Eid al-Adha and the summer return of Tunisians abroad, while pushing electronic payments. Business & Jobs: Jumia plans another 10% workforce cut as it rolls out AI across logistics, finance and marketing to reach profitability by end-2026.

World Cup Visa Relief: The US has suspended the controversial visa-bond requirement for 2026 World Cup ticket holders from Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and Tunisia—after deposits of up to $15,000 sparked backlash—though fans still must go through normal visa checks and FIFA Pass registration. Tunisia Education Pressure: In Tunisia, parents’ and students’ groups say private tutoring has become a “major injustice,” pushing baccalaureate success toward those who can pay. Mobile Payments Push: Tunisia’s central bank is rolling out the single “TUNPAY” label to unify mobile payments, after a surge in transaction volumes in 2025. Logistics & Trade: Qatar Airways Cargo is expanding capacity, including added flights to Tunis and Addis Ababa, as it boosts overall cargo capacity by 12%. Tunisia Under Scrutiny: Rights groups warn Tunisia’s civil society and media are facing intensifying legal pressure.

World Cup Travel Relief: The U.S. has suspended its controversial visa-bond requirement for some 2026 FIFA World Cup fans, exempting ticket-holding supporters from Algeria, Senegal, Tunisia, Cape Verde and Côte d’Ivoire—though regular visa checks still apply. Libya Elections Push: UN envoy Hanna Tetteh met Libya’s Deputy PM Salem Al-Zadma, stressing progress on an electoral framework and the High National Elections Commission, while the U.S. backs the UN roadmap. Tunisia Education Pressure: Tunisian parents’ leader Ridha Zahrouni calls private tutoring a “major injustice” that deepens inequality, especially for baccalaureate students. Mobile Payments Standardization: Tunisia’s central bank rolls out the unified “TUNPAY” label, as mobile transactions surge in 2025. Security & Sovereignty: Experts warn digital ID systems need built-in cyber defence, not add-ons. Regional Economy: Tunisia’s tourism faces fresh strain as regional conflict lifts travel costs and cuts bookings.