Ministry of Finance Sets Effective Average Interest Rates and Usury Thresholds for First Half of 2026
The Ministry of Finance has officially set the effective average interest rates and usury thresholds, also known as "usury rates," for the first half of 2026. This measure, endorsed by the decree published in the Official Journal of the Tunisian Republic (JORT) No. 11 of January 27, 2026, aims to establish a strict legal framework for the practices of banking institutions. By capping the cost of credit, the authorities intend to protect users and preserve the stability of the national financial system. According to the new provisions, the maximum authorized cost for a consumer loan is now set at 13.90%. In the real estate sector, loans financed from the ordinary resources of banks cannot exceed an interest rate of 12.62%. Other categories of financing are also framed: the leasing of movable and immovable property reaches the highest ceiling with 16.12%, while bank overdrafts are limited to 14.85%. Short-term loans have a threshold of 12.03%, slightly lower than the rates planned for the medium term (12.46%) and the long term (12.19%). Finally, the factoring sector has its ceiling set at 14.43%. These thresholds are not arbitrary; they result from the calculation of the effective average interest rates observed during the second half of 2025. This regulation imposes rigorous discipline on credit institutions, with any infringement exposing them to the sanctions provided for by the legislation on usurious loans. Beyond the repressive aspect, this legal framework ensures a necessary balance between the profitability of banks and the purchasing power of borrowers, whether individuals or companies, by guaranteeing total transparency on the real cost of money. Read also: The Central Bank of Tunisia maintains its key rate at 7%
