Tunisia Sees Stable Growth Opportunities in Exports to China
In a constantly evolving global context, the People's Republic of China remains the world's second-largest economy and second-largest consumer market, offering Tunisia stable growth prospects for its exports. According to Adel Arbi, Tunisia's ambassador to Beijing, this cooperation extends to all sectors, including tourism and higher education, with the goal of increasing the presence of Tunisian students in Chinese universities.
In an interview with the Tap agency, the ambassador emphasized that the Tunisian community in China, particularly students, is a top priority for Tunisian diplomacy. He specified that the embassy ensures regular follow-up, organizes meetings on festive occasions, and supports students in their academic endeavors. "Some of these students distinguish themselves with remarkable performances, contributing to a positive image of Tunisia abroad," he added.
To facilitate access for Tunisian students to Chinese universities, the embassy maintains constant contact with Chinese ministries and higher education institutions to promote the awarding of additional scholarships and partial coverage of tuition fees. "The increase in the number of Tunisian students in China allows them to strengthen their skills and expertise while consolidating the country's cultural and scientific influence," he further specified.
In the same vein, Adel Arbi stressed the role of Tunisian students as ambassadors of Tunisian culture and potential relays of Chinese culture upon their return. According to him, their academic excellence enables them to effectively represent their universities in the professional world and on international markets.
Challenges and Opportunities for the Private Sector
On a bilateral level, the embassy plays a key role in strengthening Tunisian-Chinese ties, particularly since President Kaïs Saïed's visit to China in 2024. The embassy organizes meetings with Chinese decision-makers and ministries, coordinates visits by Tunisian delegations, and participates in conferences and trade fairs to promote Tunisian products and investment opportunities.
In this context, the Tunisian embassy is present at the 8th edition of the China International Import Expo in Shanghai until November 10. The Tunisian stand showcases the country's olive oil, cultural heritage, and tourist potential.
The ambassador explained that Chinese tourism is particularly sensitive to cultural ties. Chinese tourists prefer destinations that offer cultural and civilizational discovery, which represents an opportunity for Tunisia to enhance its heritage and tourist attractions.
In the economic domain, despite the efforts of the Tunisian government and embassy to stimulate cooperation with China, the participation of the Tunisian private sector remains limited. However, the ambassador assured that Tunisian companies are regularly encouraged to participate in trade fairs and economic events, with the support of the Ministry of Trade, which offers mechanisms and incentives to promote Tunisian-Chinese partnerships and exports to the Chinese market.
"Despite strong economic potential, Tunisia continues to work towards better integration of its private sector into exchanges with China... All stakeholders are multiplying initiatives to support Tunisian companies, promote their products on the Chinese market, and strengthen bilateral partnerships. A commitment that could transform the Tunisian-Chinese partnership into a true driver of growth," he assured.
