Tunisia's foreign‑exchange reserves rise to 25.6 bn dinars as leather‑shoe sector fuels export surplus

Tunisia's net foreign‑exchange reserves surpassed 25.6 billion dinars as of 15 May, extending the country's import‑covering capacity to 105 days, up from 99 days a year earlier. The increase is linked to higher tourism revenues (+4.7 % to 3.1 bn dinars) and stronger remittances from Tunisians abroad (+4.1 % to 2.2 bn dinars). Domestic cash circulation grew 19 % to 28 bn dinars, while commercial banks' reliance on central‑bank refinancing fell by the same margin.

The leather and footwear industry remains a leading export sector, generating roughly 2.1 bn dinars in 2025 and covering imports by 167 %. Exports are concentrated in Italy, France and Germany, accounting for about 70 % of overseas sales. Despite robust foreign‑market performance, domestic producers face intense competition from smuggled goods, limiting local market share. Investment in the sector jumped 167 % in 2025, with significant foreign participation, especially from Italian firms, and emerging interest from sub‑Saharan investors.