Tunisia tourism: French investment grows as Chinese entry issues arise

Tunisia is experiencing significant shifts in its tourism sector involving major European and Asian markets. According to data from the Tunisian Ministry of the Interior, French citizens were the top European nationality visiting the country in 2025, with 1,134,400 visitors recorded.

French companies represent the leading foreign investor and largest employer in the Tunisian tourism sector. Cumulative investments from French firms have reached 628 million dinars, creating over 4,500 jobs, which accounts for approximately 22% of all positions generated by foreign direct investment. To support this, the French Development Agency and the French Institute of Tunisia are working on professional training and employability projects.

Simultaneously, Tunisia is attempting to expand its market to Chinese tourists through visa exemptions implemented in October 2023. However, the Chinese Embassy in Tunis has issued warnings following reports of Chinese nationals being denied entry at Tunis-Carthage Airport. Reported issues include damaged passports, inconsistent travel itineraries, or insufficient proof of accommodation. The embassy noted that border controls have tightened as part of efforts to combat irregular immigration.