Translation
While the State imports roughly 30,000 tonnes of coffee each year, it sells 2,600 tonnes per month.
Even here, there is a deliberate split—and disparity—between the industrial sector and the public.
- Professionals capture 2,000 tonnes per month.
- Consumers receive only the remaining 600 tonnes.
This imbalance also explains the occasional shortage of coffee, which has even paved the way for smuggled coffee sales. Buying at the lowest price benefits both industries and consumers, which is why smuggled coffee has become so attractive.
“In 2024, Algeria set the price of green coffee at 16 DT. Roasted coffee sells for only 25 DT, which is significantly cheaper than the price set in our country. While coffee is subsidised in Algeria, it is not subsidised in Tunisia. Smuggled coffee therefore appeals to both consumers and manufacturers. Without strong economic controls, it is difficult to combat this scourge,” he notes.
Smuggled coffee poses a serious threat to legally imported coffee. The official reports that monthly sales, which used to be 2,600 tonnes, have fallen to just 1,000 tonnes per month. Strengthening economic controls and fighting counterfeit products is now an urgent priority.
