Automotive sector in Tunisia: €3.9 billion in exports by 2025

The number of companies active in the automotive manufacturing and components sector in Tunisia exceeded 280 establishments during the year 2025. This figure testifies to a remarkable growth dynamic, reinforcing Tunisia's position as a preferred destination for industrial investment.

The Tunisian automotive industry continues its upward trajectory, confirming its strategic role as a major industrial hub in North Africa and the Euro-Mediterranean area.

The sector currently employs over 120,000 people and generates estimated exports of around €3.9 billion, supported by an average annual growth rate of 16% since 2018.

According to data presented today at a workshop organized by the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy, the Tunisian Association of Automotive Component Manufacturers (TAA) and with the support of German cooperation (GIZ), the distribution of exports is as follows:

• Germany: 37% (1st destination)

• France: 21%

• Romania: 12%

• Italy: 11%

Since the early 2000s, the number of players in the sector has more than doubled, driven by sustained growth, the availability of highly skilled professionals, and significant developments in innovation and technology. This growth has led to the emergence of an integrated industrial ecosystem encompassing wiring, mechanics, plastic and electronic components, and software engineering.

Tunisia derives much of its competitiveness from the quality of its human capital, with a high rate of graduates in scientific and technical fields. This is complemented by labor, energy, and social security costs that are among the most competitive in the region.

The country's strategic geographical position, close to major European ports, as well as a network of trade agreements covering nearly 100 countries, offer additional advantages to investors.

Towards innovation and the technologies of the future
The sector is undergoing an accelerated transition towards future-oriented industries, including embedded systems, automotive software, electronic components, and electric mobility solutions. This momentum is supported by specialized structures such as:

• The Technological Resource Centre (CRT).

• The Research Center in Microelectronics and Nanotechnology (CRMN).

• The Technical Centre for Rubber and Plastics (CTCP).

Among the flagship strategic projects is the launch of the first smart industrial zone dedicated to the automotive industry, called "Automotive Smart City". Spanning 200 hectares, it will host state-of-the-art industrial units, R&D laboratories, training centers and technology spaces.

This project is expected to contribute to the creation of nearly 150,000 jobs in the medium and long term. Finally, the signing of the Automotive Industry Competitiveness Pact in 2022 marks a further step in strengthening the public-private partnership.

Source: https://www.lapresse.tn/2025/12/17/secteur-automobile-en-tunisie-39-milliards-deuros-dexportations-en-2025/