Kaïs Saïed visits Gabès to address industrial pollution

Tunisian President Kaïs Saïed conducted a surprise visit to Gabès on August 10, 2026, to assess the region's environmental situation and industrial impact. During his visit to the industrial zone, Saïed addressed the long-standing pollution issues caused by the Groupe Chimique Tunisien (GCT).

The President announced that the most polluting industrial units will not be allowed to resume operations. He stated that only facilities that have undergone necessary repairs and maintenance will be permitted to restart, emphasizing that environmental protection is a “national question.” He also rejected suggestions that public enterprises should be sold off, asserting that “our companies and public establishments are not for sale.”

In addition to environmental concerns, Saïed visited the Gabès University Hospital, where he noted a lack of resources and high patient volume. He also met with local officials and deputies at the governorate headquarters, characterizing the current national climate as a struggle against various political and external pressures.