Tension Mounts at Tunisian Phosphate Production Sites

Strikes Hit CPG Facilities in Metlaoui, Redeyef, Moularès, and Mdhilla

On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, a significant escalation of tensions was witnessed at the phosphate production sites operated by the Compagnie des Phosphates de Gafsa (CPG) in Metlaoui, Redeyef, Moularès, and Mdhilla. Production has been suspended in these districts, with activities at Mdhilla grinding to a halt since Tuesday.

Workers' Demands Spark Widespread Strike

The wave of strikes is a direct response to professional demands made by CPG employees. At the heart of the dispute are the Aïd and productivity bonuses, which have seen a drastic reduction in recent years. According to Rym Helal, Secretary-General of the Fédération des Mines, the amounts allocated to employees have dwindled to barely half of what was disbursed in previous years.

Syndicate Leader Laments Lack of Negotiation

Helal also expressed her concern over the unilateral payment of these bonuses, without any prior negotiation with social partners. She questioned the motivations behind what she described as a "deliberate attempt to fuel tensions" within the Gafsa governorate.

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