Despite ongoing drought conditions affecting North Africa, Tunisia has demonstrated resilience and remarkable performance in its agricultural sector. In 2024, the country’s food exports generated a record 8.47 billion dinars ($2.6 billion), reflecting a significant 15.8% increase compared to the previous year. This achievement underscores the strategic role of agriculture in Tunisia’s economic growth despite challenging circumstances.
A key export driver: olive oil leading the way
Olive oil remains Tunisia’s top agricultural export and a primary driver of growth. While shipment volumes have remained stable, revenues surged by 27%, reaching 4.8 billion dinars ($1.5 billion). This exceptional growth is largely attributed to favorable international market prices and robust demand for Tunisian olive oil globally.
Other notable performances: dates and citrus fruits on the rise
In addition to olive oil, the date and citrus industries have shown strong growth:
- Dates: A 20% increase in revenues, reaching 955 million dinars ($299 million).
- Citrus Fruits: An impressive 55.5% surge, generating 20 million dinars ($6.2 million).
Higher export prices supported these gains, with price increases of 29.3% for olive oil, 25.1% for citrus fruits, and moderate rises for dates and fish products.
Challenges in the fishing sector
Conversely, fish products, Tunisia’s third-largest food export category, experienced a 5.5% decline in revenues, amounting to 648.1 million dinars ($202 million). This drop was driven by a 6.3% reduction in export volumes, highlighting structural challenges facing this sector.
Agriculture’s growing role in national revenue
The strong performance in food exports has elevated agriculture’s contribution to Tunisia’s overall export revenues. This share increased from 11.6% in 2023 to 13.7% in 2024, further cementing the sector’s position as a vital pillar of the national economy.
Outlook and economic challenges
Tunisia’s success in boosting food exports reflects its ability to adapt to market dynamics and leverage its flagship products on the international stage. However, challenges remain, particularly in diversifying its export portfolio and addressing the impacts of climate change.
By building on its current achievements, Tunisia has the potential to strengthen its position in regional and global agricultural trade, paving the way for promising economic prospects in the years ahead.
The Editor