Tunisia trade deficit widens to 14.96 billion dinars

Tunisia's trade deficit widened significantly to 14.96 billion dinars during the first seven months of 2026, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS). This represents an increase from the 11.90 billion dinar deficit recorded during the same period in 2025.

While exports grew by 9.9% to reach 40.64 billion dinars, imports rose more sharply by 13.7%, totaling 55.60 billion dinars. The energy sector remains a primary driver of the imbalance, with the energy trade deficit reaching approximately 7.95 billion dinars by the end of July, accounting for over 50% of the total trade deficit.

Sectoral performance showed mixed results. Exports saw growth in mechanical and electrical industries (+10.5%) and agri-food industries (+22.9%), largely driven by olive oil sales. Conversely, the mining, phosphate, and textile sectors experienced declines. On the import side, energy products saw a 35.7% increase.

In parallel, Tunisia is pursuing energy transition reforms aimed at reaching 23% renewable energy in its electricity production by 2030. Experts note that achieving this goal will require significant infrastructure modernization of the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company (STEG) and improved energy storage solutions.