The Tunisian Automotive Sector Makes a Major Strategic Shift
What was once a social responsibility has now become a crucial selection criterion for international manufacturers. Issam Jemli confirms this without hesitation. The General Manager of BONTAZ Tunisia and member of the board of directors of the Tunisian Automotive Association (TAA) expressed himself on Thursday during a panel discussion on the impact of artificial intelligence on African industries, as part of the third African ESG Summit. His message: clients no longer accept working with subcontractors who do not demonstrate their environmental, social, and governance commitment.
Facing Competitive Pressure
In the face of this competitive pressure, the industry has organized itself. The TAA, founded in 2016, focuses its efforts on strengthening the competitiveness of local players. The association has developed a digital evaluation tool that allows companies to measure their level of progress on ESG criteria.
A Methodical Approach
This interactive instrument examines the performance of companies according to the three classic dimensions: environment, social, and governance. A methodical approach that allows for identifying priority areas for improvement.
Integration of ESG Issues
The integration of these issues goes beyond private initiatives. The competitiveness pact concluded between the profession and the Tunisian state in 2022 was enriched with a sixth section specifically dedicated to sustainability. This inclusion in an official agreement translates the institutional recognition of these transformations.
Companies' Efforts
Companies in the sector are deploying their efforts on two complementary fronts. The first concerns resource management and the circular economy, with the objective of maximizing the reuse of components and materials. This logic responds simultaneously to ecological and economic imperatives.
Technological Upgrading
The second axis focuses on technological upgrading. Issam Jemli particularly emphasizes the local development of electronic systems and embedded software. BONTAZ Tunisia thus carries out work inspired by Renault standards or designs solutions for new-generation vehicles.
Synergy Between Actors
The dynamic extends beyond established actors. Young technology companies are developing solutions to measure and reduce the environmental footprint of industries. This synergy between traditional actors and startups fuels the transformation of the sector.
A Clear Equation
For the Tunisian automotive industry, the equation is now clear: environmental and social performance conditions access to international contracts. Sustainability is imposed as a strategic variable, on a par with quality or production deadlines.
