University Professor and Economist Moez Soussi Reveals Expected Salary Increases for the Current Year

In a recent interview on the radio, university professor and economist Moez Soussi outlined the key points of the expected salary increases for the current year. Amidst budgetary imperatives and social expectations, the needle seems to be set.

Public Sector to Receive 4% Salary Increase

According to Soussi's analysis, the public sector is expected to benefit from a 4% salary increase, a figure calculated in strict conformity with the credits already allocated in the state budget. On the other hand, the private sector may experience a slightly more favorable dynamic, with increases ranging from 5% to 6%. This disparity is attributed to a compensation structure more closely tied to productivity indicators and specific risk levels characteristic of private enterprises.

Government Anticipates Financial Impact

To absorb the financial shock of these measures, the government has anticipated the needs from the outset of the 2026 Finance Law. A budget of 1 billion dinars has been provisioned under the heading of "unforeseen expenses." This reserve fund is exclusively intended to cover the cost of revising the salary grid without further destabilizing public finances.

Timeline for Announcements

The schedule for these announcements appears to be taking shape. Officialization of the increases could occur symbolically on Labor Day, May 1st. This milestone aligns with the Head of State's desire to reaffirm Tunisia's social doctrine. In practical terms, employees will not be disadvantaged by the wait, as the increases will be retroactive to January 1st, 2026. The first payments, including these retroactive elements, should appear on pay stubs in May.

A Delicate Balance for Public Finances

However, the exercise remains a complex balancing act for public finances. With a total salary bill of 25.267 billion dinars, the state allocates nearly 40% of its overall expenditures to employee compensation. Despite this increased pressure, exacerbated by the surge in hydrocarbon costs, Soussi tempers enthusiasm. He notes that while the state's efforts are genuine, they fall short of the 7% expected by citizens to compensate for the accumulated loss of purchasing power due to persistent inflation.

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