Launch of the Green Forward Industry Project in Tunisia
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in collaboration with the Tunisian Union of Industry, Trade, and Handicrafts (UTICA), the Ministry of Industry, Energy, and Mines, and the Ministry of Environment, organized an event in Tunisia to launch the Green Forward Industry (GFI) project, funded by the European Union (EU). This initiative marks a decisive step in Tunisia's industrial green transformation, aiming to demonstrate innovative, resource-efficient, and circular economic models within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the automotive, electrical, and electronics sectors - key industries for Tunisia's export economy.
Key Statements
- "In the industrial sector, the circular economy is not just an option, it's an opportunity and a necessity. It's based on a simple principle: reduce, recycle, and valorize. The Tunisian automotive sector, which includes 300 companies and employs 120,000 people, contributes 6% to the GDP and generates nearly 3 billion dinars in exports," said Afef Chachi Tayari, Chief of Cabinet at the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy.
- "This initiative illustrates UNIDO's strategic commitment to the region and our support for Tunisia's green transition," stated Lassaad Ben Hassine, UNIDO Representative in Tunisia. "The Green Forward Industry project relies on UNIDO's technical expertise and the achievements of the SwitchMed program to support Tunisian SMEs in adopting circular models, developing export opportunities, and strengthening their position in global value chains."
- "With Green Forward Industry, we are taking a new step in our strategic partnership with Tunisia. The European Union is proud to support the adoption of circular economy models in a key sector like the automotive industry, where 80% of exports are destined for the European market. This initiative aims to reduce the environmental footprint while strengthening competitiveness and creating green jobs for young people and women," said Giuseppe Perrone, EU Ambassador to Tunisia.
Project Objectives
The GFI project aims to:
- Demonstrate innovative, resource-efficient, and circular economic models within SMEs in the automotive, electrical, and electronics sectors
- Identify value chains with high circularity potential through a sectoral mapping exercise
- Select pilot projects to be implemented in early 2026, showcasing circular business models that promote green job creation and international competitiveness
Partnership and Support
The project is part of the regional Green Forward Initiative, funded by the European Union and implemented in eight countries in the southern Mediterranean. It supports the transition to a circular economy through policy reforms, institutional capacity building, and targeted technical assistance for SMEs. The Tunisian private sector, represented by UTICA, has expressed its commitment to supporting this transition.
Conclusion
The launch of the Green Forward Industry project marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and competitive industrial sector in Tunisia. With the support of the European Union, UNIDO, and the Tunisian government, this initiative has the potential to create a model for circular economy in the region, promoting green growth, job creation, and environmental protection.
