Tunisia’s Energy Transition Secretary Discusses Middle‑East Tensions and Their Impact on Oil Supply
Date: 4 March 2026
Source: Hearing before the Finance Committee of the Assembly of the People’s Representatives
Key Takeaways
| Topic | Statement | Implication for Tunisia |
|---|---|---|
| Middle‑East tensions | Recent flare‑ups in the region, especially around the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, were examined. | No immediate effect on Tunisia’s hydrocarbon supply. |
| Natural gas imports | Contracts are secured with Algeria and several European countries. | Stable supply chain; diversification reduces exposure to geopolitical shocks. |
| Crude oil imports | The bulk of contracts are signed with Azerbaijan. | Imports bypass the Strait of Hormuz, eliminating the risk of disruption from regional conflicts. |
| Energy deficit | Currently stands at 65 % of total demand. | Goal: cut the deficit to 30 %. |
| Renewable energy target | Raise the share of renewables to 50 % by 2035 and 80 % by 2050. | Aligns with Tunisia’s long‑term climate and energy‑security strategy. |
Detailed Summary
During his testimony on 4 March 2026, Wael Chouchane, Secretary of State for Energy Transition, addressed the potential repercussions of the latest tensions in the Middle East on Tunisia’s energy market.
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Geopolitical Context
- The recent unrest in the Gulf region and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz were highlighted.
- Chouchane emphasized that, at this stage, these tensions will not affect Tunisia’s hydrocarbon supply.
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Natural Gas Strategy
- Tunisia’s natural gas imports are anchored by long‑term contracts with Algeria and a portfolio of European suppliers.
- This diversified approach safeguards the country against supply shocks stemming from regional instability.
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Crude Oil Procurement
- The majority of Tunisia’s crude oil contracts are with Azerbaijan, a source that routes shipments outside the Strait of Hormuz.
- By avoiding this chokepoint, Tunisia eliminates a major risk factor for oil import disruptions.
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Energy Deficit & Renewable Ambitions
- The current energy deficit—the gap between domestic production and consumption—reaches 65 %.
- The government’s roadmap aims to reduce this deficit to 30 % while boosting renewable energy to 50 % of the energy mix by 2035 and 80 % by 2050.
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Conclusion
Secretary Chouchane’s testimony reassures that current geopolitical tensions in the Middle East pose no immediate threat to Tunisia’s oil and gas supplies, thanks to strategic sourcing from Algeria, Europe, and Azerbaijan. The broader agenda focuses on dramatically cutting the energy deficit and accelerating the shift toward renewable energy, positioning Tunisia for a more resilient and sustainable energy future.
