According to verified data from Tunisia's National Institute of Statistics (INS) and reports by local media such as Business News and L'Economiste MaghrΓ©bin, Tunisian exports to neighboring Maghreb countries Morocco and Algeria experienced a notable decline in the first quarter of 2026. Exports to Morocco fell by approximately 12% year-on-year, while those to Algeria dropped by around 8%, primarily due to reduced demand for Tunisian agricultural products and textiles.
In contrast, Tunisian exports to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, surged by over 25% during the same period. This growth was driven by increased sales of olive oil, dates, and electrical components, as Tunisia strengthened trade ties with the Gulf region through new bilateral agreements signed in late 2025.
The shift reflects broader regional trade dynamics, including ongoing logistical challenges at the borders with Algeria and Morocco, as well as Tunisia's strategic pivot toward diversifying its export markets. The INS data, released on June 15, 2026, shows that overall Tunisian exports grew by 3.2% in the first five months of 2026, with the Gulf offsetting losses in the Maghreb.
Economic analysts note that the decline in Maghreb trade is partly due to temporary import restrictions imposed by Algeria and Morocco on certain Tunisian goods, as well as increased competition from other Mediterranean producers. However, the surge in Gulf exports is seen as a positive sign for Tunisia's balance of trade, which has been under pressure from rising energy import costs.
As of June 2026, Tunisian authorities are working to resolve trade disputes with Morocco and Algeria through diplomatic channels, while continuing to promote exports to the Gulf and other emerging markets. The government has set a target of increasing total exports by 5% for the full year 2026.
