The Tunisian Automotive Sector Makes a Major Strategic Shift
The industry that was once driven by social responsibility now prioritizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria as a key selection factor for international manufacturers. Issam Jemli confirms this without hesitation. The General Manager of BONTAZ Tunisia and member of the Tunisian Automotive Association (TAA) executive committee expressed his views during a panel discussion on the impact of artificial intelligence on African industries at the third African ESG Summit. His message was clear: clients no longer accept working with subcontractors who fail to demonstrate their commitment to environmental, social, and governance practices.
Pressure and Organization
In response to 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 enables companies to measure their progress on ESG criteria. This interactive instrument assesses companies' performance based on the three classic dimensions: environment, social, and governance. A methodical approach that identifies priority areas for improvement.
Integration and Institutional Recognition
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 reflects the institutional recognition of these transformations.
Efforts and Axes of Improvement
Companies in the sector are deploying their efforts on two complementary fronts. The first concerns resource management and the circular economy, with the goal of maximizing the reuse of components and materials. This logic responds simultaneously to ecological and economic imperatives. The second axis focuses on technological upgrading. Issam Jemli particularly emphasizes the local development of electronic systems and embedded software. BONTAZ Tunisia is working on projects inspired by Renault standards or designing solutions for new-generation vehicles.
Synergy and Transformation
The dynamic extends beyond established players. 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 has become a strategic variable, on par with quality or production deadlines.
