WT/TPR/M/341  
1 September  2016 
(16-4625) Page: 1/35 
Trade Policy Review Body  
13 and 15 July 2016   
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
TUNISIA  
MINUTES  OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: Ms Irene Young ( Hong Kong, China)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F TUNISIA  ................................ ..... 4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  9 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEM BERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  12 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF TUNISIA  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS .........  29 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  35 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Tunisia  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 341/Add.1  and will be available online 
at http://www.wto.org/e nglish/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The third Trade Policy Review of Tunisia was held on 15 and 17 July 2016. The Chairperson, 
Ms. Irene Young (Hong Kong, China), welcomed the delegation of Tunisia headed by Mr. Moh sen 
Hassen, Minister of Trade of Tunisia; the delegation from Tunisi a; and the discussant, 
H.E. Mr. Boonyarit Kalazanamit (Thailand).  
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Trade Policy Reviews and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting.  The report by Tunisia was contained in document WT/TPR/G/341 
and that of the WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/341.  
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been submitted in writing before the deadline and 
had been transmitted to the delegation of Tunisia: M exico; United States; Oman; European Union; 
and China. The following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline: Canada; 
Thailand; Brazil; and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These questions had also been transmitted to 
the delegation of Tunis ia. 
1.4.  The Chairperson took note of the very special circumstances that the country had gone 
through in recent years, notably the revolution in 2010 -11 and the adoption of a new Constitution 
in 2014. These major developments largely explained why over ten yea rs had lapsed since Tunisia 
had its last TPR. They also put in context the country's new vision for development and the many 
strategic reforms that were being implemented, including those affecting economic and trade 
policies. So, with this background in m ind, the Chairperson looked back to the comments that 
Members had made at Tunisia's TPR in 2005, and the issues that could be of interest to them in 
2016.  
1.5.  At the previous TPR, Members had commended Tunisia for its good macroeconomic 
performance and for th e improvement in the standards of living of its people. Several Members 
had enquired at the time about the role of trade policy in Tunisia's development strategy. Many 
Members had considered that additional reforms were needed to liberalize the exchange ra te and 
the trade regime, to reduce the dualism between the domestic and export sectors of the economy, 
and to reduce State intervention. At that time, Members had considered that these reforms would 
help to stimulate economic growth and reduce unemployment . 
1.6.  In the decade that followed, Tunisia had generally succeeded in maintaining positive real 
economic growth and macroeconomic balance, despite the socio -political crises. This good 
performance was largely due to the country's diversified economy and the si gnificant contribution 
of trade. However, the fall in the share of exports in GDP coupled with a rise in the share of 
imports in GDP, suggested that reforms were needed to revive the competitiveness of Tunisian 
enterprises. In this connection, the Chairper son noted that the major reforms outlined in the 
Tunisian Five -Year Plan (2016 -2020) sought to promote, among other things, investment, public 
private partnership and competition. The Chairperson believed Members might wish to learn more 
about the reform s trategies and how they were translated into concrete measures.  
1.7.  With regard to specific trade policy instruments, Members had commented at the previous 
TPR that customs duties in Tunisia had been among the highest of WTO Members. Since then, 
decisive actio ns had been taken by the authorities, such that MFN tariffs had been reduced from 
an average of 45% in 2006 down to 14% in 2016, and maximum rates also had reduced from 
150% to 36%. This was a remarkable achievement. However, in addition to tariffs, numero us 
other duties and charges remained, including hefty consumption taxes whose exemptions were 
used to manage imports, notably of vehicles. Members might be interested in the authorities' plans 
to streamline border and internal taxation and to reduce the pr evalence of fiscal privileges.  
1.8.  At the same time, the numerous incentives that had applied to investment, production and – 
particularly – exports at the time of the last TPR still remained in place. The Chairperson 
suggested that it might be useful to know Tunisia's plans for their rationalization.  
1.9.  Apart from these, judging from the questions received in advance, Members would also 
benefit from more in -depth discussion on the new Investment Code and the reform of state trading 
entities. While recognizing the  efforts that Tunisia had made in protecting intellectual property, WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  streamlining customs procedures and simplifying import controls, Members looked forward to the 
prospect of further improvement in these areas.  
1.10.   This meeting was a good opportunity for Membe rs to discuss in greater detail issues of 
interest to them and of importance to the multilateral trading system. The Chairperson looked 
forward to a fruitful exchange.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F TUNISIA (MR. MOHSEN HASSEN ) 
2.1.  May I begin by t hanking, in particular, Her Excellency Ms Irene Young, Permanent 
Representative of Hong Kong, China, for having agreed to chair the meeting on Tunisia's third 
Trade Policy Review, as well as His Excellency Mr Boonyarit Kalayanamit, Ambassador of Thailand, 
for having done us the honour of presenting Tunisia's trade policies.  
2.2.  I would also like to thank the members of delegations for their contributions to the 
proceedings and the WTO Secretariat for its report on our trade and economic policies which, 
together  with the Tunisian Government's report, will provide a sound basis for a fruitful discussion 
during the course of this two day review of Tunisia's trade policies.  
2.3.  We welcome the opportunities offered by the trade policy review mechanism in terms of 
greater  transparency and a better understanding of Tunisia's economic and trade policies.  
2.4.  I will begin my statement with a retrospective survey of Tunisia's socio economic context. I 
will then briefly describe, in their broad outlines, some of the reforms underta ken by the 
Government to consolidate Tunisia's economic achievements of the last ten years and build on its 
successes. I will then give an account of the unfailing commitment of my country's trade policy to 
the liberalization of trade and conclude by recal ling the objectives of the Tunisian economy and its 
prospects.  
2.5.  First of all, it should be borne in mind that since the outbreak of the global financial crisis of 
2008 2009, Tunisia, whose economy is highly export oriented, has been confronted with major 
challenges linked with the persistent slowdown in world trade, and sluggish demand, particularly in 
the countries of the Eurozone, the main destinations for Tunisian exports. It has subsequently had 
to face the external problems linked with the events of the  so called Arab Spring, which involved 
security and led to additional budgetary expenditure on safeguarding our borders.  
2.6.  Internally, the unparalleled changes that took place beginning in 2011 and, moreover, the 
terrorist attacks directed against my country , in particular on three occasions in the year 2015, left 
their mark on the economy and accentuated its problems, leading to a decline in economic activity. 
Tourism and the textile and clothing industry, key sectors for the Tunisian economy, were 
particula rly adversely affected.  
2.7.  Despite the headwinds, Tunisia has continued to honour all its commitments to its financial 
partners and has also succeeded in restoring confidence in the business environment, which is now 
healthy and transparent, as well as in re establishing a favourable climate for domestic and foreign 
investment.  
2.8.  In fact, as indicated in the Secretariat report, despite the difficult circumstances, Tunisia has 
demonstrated exceptional resilience, which has enabled it to record positive growth.  
2.9.  The country's solid economic fundamentals, combined with sound budgetary and monetary 
policies, have made it possible to keep inflation under tight control. In general, the Tunisian 
economy has succeeded in maintaining the fundamental balances.  
2.10.   In 2013, in r esponse to the imbalances that emerged following a sharp increase in current 
expenditure, the efforts to rationalize compensatory expenditure, in particular by reducing energy 
subsidies and introducing tax reforms as from 2014, made it possible to improve the viability of 
the public finances and maintain balanced budgets.  
2.11.   Tunisia has succeeded in mobilizing FDI flows, which bears witness to the country's potential 
and strengths, and by the end of 2015 the trend in prices had been contained at the level of 4 .9%. 
As far as the balance of payments is concerned, the trade deficit shrank in 2015 thanks to a good 
export performance, especially in the agricultural sector, which helped to reduce the current 
account deficit to 8.8% at the end of the same year. Accord ing to the World Bank, there has been 
a decline in poverty, which reflects both the capacity of the social security system to preserve 
household purchasing power and the control maintained over inflation.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  2.12.   Nevertheless, during the transitional period of 201 1 2015 Tunisia's economic performance 
fell below its potential. The short term challenges relate, in particular, to the unemployment 
situation, especially among young graduates, and to regional disparities, which persist and call for 
a considerable effort.  
2.13.   I would now like to give you a brief account of the steps that Tunisia has taken to meet 
these challenges.  
2.14.   With the signature of the Social Pact in 2013, Tunisia successfully concluded a unique 
experiment in national dialogue and compromise, conducted by a civil society quartet, which won 
it the Nobel peace prize. It carried out its political transition peacefully and successfully, following 
the adoption of the Constitution of the Second Republic and the establishment of sustainable 
national institutions.  
2.15.    Tunisia is now engaged in its economic transition and the reconfiguration of its approach to 
development, as recently set out by the Government in a Strategic Development Plan for the 
period 2016 2020. This Plan is aimed at converting the Tunisian economy  from a low cost economy 
into an open, globally integrated hub.  
2.16.   The objectives of the development plan include creating a more diversified economic fabric 
with a strong employability capacity, especially for skilled workers. Good governance and the 
elimina tion of corruption, human development and social inclusion, the realization of regional 
ambitions, and a green economy for sustainable development are other major development goals.  
2.17.   Thus, efforts and resources will be focused on strengthening and developin g infrastructure 
and logistics, promoting innovation, increasing value added in the export sectors and improving 
the rate of development of productivity.  
2.18.   The main structural components of this development plan relate to logistics, in particular 
ports, rail ways, roads, industrial zones, etc. No less than 50 large scale projects are envisaged 
under the plan, many of which are to be carried out in the various interior regions. Total 
investment will amount to TND 120 billion, of which 45 billion will be in the form of public 
investment, 57 billion in the form of local private investment, and 18 billion in the form of foreign 
direct investment.  
2.19.   Tunisia is counting on its own resources and on the support of its bilateral and multilateral 
partners to achieve these ambitious objectives. On the 29th and 30th of next November an 
international conference will be held in Tunis to underpin the country's goals and projects and 
examine the possibility of contributing to their realization.  
2.20.   Already, with a view to creating th e conditions necessary for the Tunisian economy to boost 
its performance in various sectors over the course of the new five year plan, Tunisia has 
undertaken a vast programme of structural reforms and coordinated initiatives aimed at 
consolidating macroeco nomic stability, improving the quality of the services provided by the 
government and public institutions, tightening budgetary discipline and continuing the reform of 
the banking sector.  
2.21.   The reforms are primarily targeted on the legal and organizational b asis of economic 
activity, with a view to improving the business climate. Two vital aspects of these reforms concern 
the good governance and efficiency of the institutions and are focused on good resource 
management and the mobilization of the public.  
2.22.   Having joined the Open Government Partnership, last December the Government introduced 
an Open Budget Portal to provide a full range of budgetary information. Tunisia is one of the 40 
countries to use the World Bank's public expenditure database to facilitate access to detailed 
budgetary information and improve the transparency of the budget and public spending.  
2.23.   The budgetary measures were mainly concerned with tax reforms involving improvements in 
tax collection and the design of fairer systems. The rate of co rporation tax was reduced and the 
public services were modernized to make collection more efficient.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  2.24.   Likewise, the system of subsidies, in particular for energy, was reformed in order to ease 
the burden on the public finances and to target spending more ef fectively on the poorest segments 
of the population.  
2.25.   A wide range of targeted measures have been taken to ensure that the national economy is 
properly financed. These include, in particular, the revision of the law on the Central Bank of 
Tunisia and the ba nking law, which has brought the legal framework for the banking system into 
closer alignment with international standards. Likewise, the financial basis and governance of the 
banks, particularly those which are State owned, have been strengthened and risk  based banking 
supervision has been tightened in order to promote improved conditions of financial stability and 
systemic risk prevention.  
2.26.   Similarly, with a view to promoting exports, foreign investment and Tunisian business 
outsourcing, steps have been ta ken to revise the foreign exchange regulations in the direction of 
greater liberalization and flexibility in accordance with an integrated and sequential approach that 
favours market mechanisms.  
2.27.   In addition to these measures, with a view to reviving growth  and absorbing unemployment, 
especially among young graduates, and attracting investment, the reform of the Investment Code 
provides for the simplification of procedures, easy access to markets by abolishing authorizations 
for almost all activities, for Tu nisians and foreigners alike, introducing a single interlocutor for 
investment and adopting legal guarantees in connection with dispute settlement.  
2.28.   A series of other reforms is also designed to promote investment and the competitiveness of 
the national eco nomy on the basis of Tunisia's competition policy, which was strengthened in 2015 
by new rules on transparency and market operation, the greater importance of the role of the 
competition council and its independence, as specified in the law on the reorgani zation of 
competition and pricing.  
2.29.   The same applies to the modernization of the regulatory framework for government 
procurement, which has made possible the computerization of procedures, greater openness as a 
result of the abolition of the national subcon tracting clause in the specifications, improved 
efficiency and faster processing. As a result, the pace of public investment has speeded up and the 
proportion of spending on government procurement awarded to foreign enterprises increased from 
7% in 2010 to  33% in 2014, a very good sign for the internationalization of the Tunisian economy.  
2.30.   Likewise, the law on public private partnership, enacted in November 2015, envisages the 
increased participation of the private sector in the efforts to improve the countr y's public 
infrastructure.  
2.31.   In addition to these structural measures and with a view to controlling prices and protecting 
purchasing power, the Government has initiated a series of measures relating to the intensification 
of field work, particularly in conn ection with wholesale and retail markets, the exploration of price 
moderation agreements with the profession, tighter controls, price freezes on certain products and 
the continuation of the process of curbing parallel trade.  
2.32.   I would now like to review the main pillars of Tunisian trade policy.  
2.33.   Tunisia is an original Member of the WTO and is firmly attached to the multilateral trading 
system and its primacy; it assigns great importance to bringing its policies and procedures into 
conformity with WTO discipli nes and commitments. The multilateral trading system embodied by 
this Organization has a special role to play for small countries such as Tunisia and helps to 
establish fairer conditions of international trade. Indeed, the interests of the small countries are 
better served within this framework for the maintenance of more favourable rules of operation.  
2.34.   For Tunisia, the fact that the Doha Development Programme has not yet been brought to a 
conclusion is a matter for concern. However, it is reassuring to note  that important progress was 
made at the WTO's Ninth and Tenth Ministerial Conferences held in Bali and Nairobi, respectively.  
2.35.   International trade is at the heart of the country's economic and foreign policy. In fact, for 
Tunisia, as a small market, trade is the engine of prosperity. One of its international trade WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  objectives is to encourage and strengthen the competitiveness of domestic enterprises on global 
markets and abolish barriers to trade. In recent years, Tunisia's very open trade policy has focused  
on unilateral internal reforms aimed at liberalizing and facilitating trade and further strengthening 
global economic integration.  
2.36.   It is important to point out that, despite the global economic crisis and some difficult 
moments for the Tunisian economy, T unisia has continued to open up its market. Its customs 
duties have been substantially reduced and simplified. Now, in 2016, there are only two rates for 
industrial products. The theoretical simple average customs duty is 14.1%. If tariff preferences are 
taken into consideration, the weighted average of the duties applied by Tunisia does not exceed 
5%. More than 85% of Tunisian imports are admitted duty free.  
2.37.   Moreover, a participatory process of simplification of the regulations has been established 
within the Ministry of Finance and Trade with a view to mitigating their disproportionate effects 
and reducing the costs of compliance. In addition, import procedures have been further simplified.  
2.38.   On 1 March 2016, the Ministry of Trade again withdrew more than 13 0 products from the 
list of products subject to technical import controls.  
2.39.   Tunisia remains very aware of the role that trade can play in the recovery of the national 
economy and as a vital engine of growth and economic stability. Thus, we are continuing to  do all 
we can to promote market opening and to strengthen world trade.  
2.40.   To lessen the predominance of Tunisia's traditional export sectors and destinations, trade 
strategy continues to be focused on the objectives of export diversification, both by product  and by 
market. It is aimed at steering exports towards promising market segments adapted to the 
changing global demand and new dynamic markets with major export potential. Investment, 
including foreign, will be oriented towards sectors of the economy with  high value added and a 
high technological content capable of creating jobs for, in particular, university graduates.  
2.41.   Tunisia is also hoping to establish ever closer links with the rapidly growing economies of 
the region.  
2.42.   The services sector is increasingl y open to foreign competition and the regulatory processes 
are transparent and adaptable. A programme to upgrade the sector will make it possible to 
improve its performance, particularly where exports are concerned. Tunisia's comparative 
advantages in seve ral services sectors, in particular professional services, are making my country 
a net exporter of services. Tunisia has a global reputation for its professionalism, its competence 
and its compliance with international standards over broad areas of medicin e ranging from dental 
care to aesthetic and reconstructive surgery and thalassotherapy cures. Its assets in the fields of 
medicine and medical tourism consist in the skills of its medical profession, the quality of the care 
provided, the high performance e quipment available, and the close fit between the hotel 
infrastructure and the medical services offered. Thanks to its very competitive medical services, as 
compared with most European countries, thousands of patients, mainly from Europe, Libya, Algeria 
and other African countries, come to take advantage of the competitiveness and quality price ratio 
of Tunisia's medical care.  
2.43.   Before concluding, I would like to share with you the first results of the reforms undertaken 
and the prospects for the Tunisian eco nomy.  
2.44.   The recent improvement in security and the social climate and the stabilization of tensions 
on the borders have led to an increase in economic activity and a decline in smuggling between 
Tunisia and its neighbours.  
2.45.   The reform process undertaken has m ade it possible to establish the credibility of the 
Tunisian economy and open up the path for a revival of investment and growth, as evidenced by 
the 26% increase in stated intentions to invest in the course of the first six months of this year, as 
well as  by the increase in an excellent indicator of economic recovery, namely imports of the 
equipment necessary for the resumption of investment activities, which suggests a very positive 
outlook for the Tunisian economy.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  2.46.   Thanks to these factors, confidence in the Tunisian economy has risen considerably and its 
ability to mobilize external resources remains important and very high, reflecting the international 
financial community's positive view of the economy's medium term potential.  
2.47.   According to the forecasts,  real GDP should increase at an average annual rate of 4% 
between 2016 and 2020, and the unemployment rate should fall to 11% in 2020. There will be 
further investment in infrastructure in order to improve our economy's competitive advantage and 
potential for growth.  
2.48.   The predictions for 2016 point to an improvement in economic activity with an expected 
growth rate of 2%. This forecast is based on the progressive recovery of the various sectors and 
an upturn in European demand.  
2.49.   To conclude, the Tunisian econ omy is currently in the recovery phase and we are now 
progressing at a moderate, but steady pace with a view to returning to the path of sustainable 
economic growth.  
2.50.   I would now like to congratulate my team on completing the considerable task of responding  
to all the questions put to us within a very short period of time, which coincided with the Eid 
festivities in Tunisia. The list of replies was communicated to the Secretariat this morning.  
2.51.   We regard the trade policy review as a valuable opportunity for a  constructive exchange of 
views. I would like to thank all those present for their patience and inform you that my team and I 
remain at your disposal to answer any questions. Thank you very much.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  I would like to start -off by we lcoming the delegation of Tunisia  led by Tunisia 's Minister of 
Commerce, His Excellency Mr. Mohsen H assen.   
3.2.  I thank H.E. the  Minister for his opening statement. My thanks must also go to Tunisia 's 
Government and the Secretariat for their comprehensive repo rts. 
3.3.  Before going further, I have to admit that I have never been to Tunisia before. When I 
decided to take this job, I started to do some research about the country and I found many 
interesting things. If you search in the Internet using the key word "Tunisia tourism " you will find a 
page with a quotation from the New York Times saying that "Tunisia is known for its golden 
beaches, sunny weather and all kinds of luxury that you can afford " which sounds very inviting to 
me. But in any case, carrying out my work today as a discussant today , I shall refrain from being 
tempted by those inviting facts and shall remain neutral to discuss the reports from the Tunisian 
Government and the Secretariat. That said,  I will touch upon several aspects of Tunisia 's policie s 
during the Review period covering a number of elements such as its overall economic 
performance, trade and investment regime, and Tunisia 's role in the multilateral trading system.  
Overall economic performance  
3.4.  Tunisia is an upper middle income country in  the middle of a grand socio -political transition. 
The economy has shown resounding resilience as the country posted its highest -ever GDP in 2014 
valued at US$48.6 billion, despite disruptions prevailing after 2010 brou ght about by the civil 
unrest. On the  positive side, the situation ended up with Tunisia having  a new C onstitution an d a 
new democratically elected G overnment.  
3.5.  Tunisia had to deal with numerous widespread problems leading to the revolution in 2011. 
After the revolution, when the nation 's hope  for democracy was on the verge of collapsing and 
violence looked inevitable, Tunisia showed the world how a peaceful democratic transition could be 
achieved in such circumstance. It was through the creation of the National Dialogue Quartet, which 
is a coa lition of civil society groups. On 5 October 2015 (last year), Tunisia National Dialogue 
Quartet won the Nobel Peace Prize for its decisive contribution to the building of a pluralistic 
democracy in the country.  In fact, this was already mentioned in the M inister 's statement at the 
very beginning already, but I personally want to re -emphasize it as I can see this is the pride of 
Tunisia.  
3.6.  The peaceful and well negotiated democratic transition helped build a solid foundation for the 
hopeful but difficult path  to prosperity. From the period of the last review in 2005 to the year 
2014, Tunisia 's economy performed admirably, achieving robust economic growth with average 
annual GDP growth of 3.4% during the period. Such growth is fuelled by Tunisia 's diverse and 
market-oriented economy, coupled with its investments in human development and infrastructure.  
3.7.  Nevertheless, the new G overnment established in 2014 was faced with numerous challenges, 
such as rebuilding businesses and investors ' confidence, controlling budg et and current account 
deficits, shoring up the country 's financial system, and addressing the high unemployment rate.  
3.8.  As expected, the economy slowed down in the post -revolutionary period, as GDP growth was 
recorded at only 2.7% in 2014 as compared to 2. 9% growth in the previous year.  As for 2015, the 
expected real GDP growth is estimated at merely 1% by IMF and World Bank.  
3.9.  This decline could be partly attributable to some factors, such as the decline in mining 
production resulting from the social tensio ns in the phosphate sector, where Tunisia is the fifth 
largest producer in the world. The mining sector, including its industrial processing, contributes 
about 7.5% of the real national GDP. Other factors contributing to the slowdown may include the 
declin es in oil and gas production, tourism and transport services and some other key industries.  
Trade and investment r egime  
3.10.   With the country 's strategic location, trade has always been of major importance for Tunisia 
with trade ratio of goods and services to GDP of about 90%. Nevertheless , Tunisia 's trade deficit WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  continues to grow as imports have increased gradually since the last review, while exports have 
idled since 2008.  
3.11.   During the review period, machinery exports achieved strong growth, previously solid s hare 
of clothing exports fell from 30% to 16.5%. Tunisia 's other major exports also declined including 
olive oil, petroleum and phosphates. The European Union remains Tunisia 's most important export 
destination and import source, with 77% of Tunisia 's expo rts going to the EU and 58% of its 
imports coming from the EU in 2014. China is Tunisia 's fastest growing import source as imports 
from China grew from 2.9% in 2005 to 7.2 % in 2014.  
3.12.   Since the previous Trade Policy Review in 2005, Tunisia has made conside rable efforts to 
further facilitate trade. Several measures were introduced including the electronic processing of 
customs documents, acceptance of digital signatures, and electronic payment of duties and taxes. 
Electronic single window and the so -called "single form " project was also established to facilitate 
sending and receiving customs declarations, foreign trade attestations and technical import control 
documents.  
3.13.   As for import tariffs, between 2005 and 2016, the simple average MFN applied rate fell fr om 
31% to 14.1%. There has been drastic reduction from a maximum duty rate of 150% in 2005 
down to a max imum rate of only 36% in 2016. Currently, Tunisia allows duty -free entry for 
approximately 47% of its tariff lines, as compared to 27% in 2015 and 15% i n 2005.  
3.14.   In terms of investment and business environment, Tunisia 's efforts to create business 
friendly environment has yielded results, as Tunisia is ranked 74th of 189 countries in 2016 
according to the World Bank 's Doing Business Programme. Further effor ts have been undertaken 
or are being carried -out to improve business and investment environment, such as the review of 
the Investment Incentives Code, improve access to funding for investors, and relaxation of state 
controls and administrative procedures t hrough the elimination or simplification of customs and tax 
formalities.  
3.15.   Moreover, a new law on competition and pricing adopted in 2015 ensures fair competition in 
industries as it imposes stricter sanctions for anti -competitive practices. However, there a re still 
some products and services currently exempted from the free pricing regime which are described 
as "essential " goods subsidized by the State, or services furnished under State monopolies.  
Contribution to the m ultilatera l trading s ystem  
3.16.   Tunisia is a contributor to the multilateral trading s ystem, the country has contributed in the 
negotiations of all issues as well as the outcomes in Nairobi. As a WTO Member, it grants MFN 
treatment to all its trading partners. It has submitted 60 notifications to t he WTO since 2005, with 
some outsta nding notifications concerning a griculture, quantitative import restrictions, subsidy 
programmes, and State trading.  
3.17.   Tunisia has not taken any countervailing, anti -dumping or safeguards actions. Since the last 
review, Tun isia has initiated five safeguard investigations in 2006, 2014, and with the latest being 
investigation on the imports of ceramic tiles in 2015. The two investigations from 2006 ended 
without any safeguard measures being taken, while the remaining investig ations are being 
finalized.  
Concluding r emark s 
3.18.   Given the various crises that Tunisia faces, what the country has been able to achieve is 
remarkable. Nevertheless, with growing trade deficit and declining foreign direct investment, 
Tunisia would very much n eed continual economic reforms. Tunisia has undertaken numerous 
initiatives during the past decade by which quite a few of them have only recently been kicked off. 
Those more recent and ongoing initiatives will need time to come to fruition.  
3.19.   Nevertheless, it should be highlighted that those that could have quick impact include the 
improvement of business environment, to which Tunisia has placed great importance and attention 
by creating more transparency, predictability, and simplicity to all related system .  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  3.20.   Other measures that can also benefit Tunisia 's economic environment are improved 
government procurement, as well as improved protections of intellectual property. These will help 
build foreign investors ' confidence and generate free, fair, an d secure bu siness environment. 
Further, a reform to make commercial activities more accessible to foreign investors could help the 
country to better utilize its young and skilled workforce while eliminating unemployment problems 
at the same time.  
3.21.   I believe that the T unisian Government will continue and maintain its path to econo mic and 
socio-cultural reforms.  I also believe that Tunisia is on the right track towards sustainable recovery 
and development. With that, I wish Tunisia a successful Trade Policy Review. Thank  you. WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
MEXICO 
4.1.  The delegation of Mexico is pleased to note the recovery of the Tunisian economy following 
the revolution, as so eloquently described by His Excellency the Minister of Trade Mohsen Hassen 
(Head of Delegation), to whom we  extend the most cordial welcome, as we do to the delegation 
which has accompanied him from his capital and to our distinguished discussant, Ambassador 
Boonyarit Kalayanamit of Thailand.  
4.2.  Mexico congratulates the Tunisian Republic on its new Constitution, o n its policies designed to 
improve the right to information and government transparency and on its efforts to promote staff 
training centres for businesses investing in technology. We are also pleased to note that the 
Tunisian Government has succeeded in r ebalancing its macroeconomic accounts.  
4.3.  Tunisia has a geographical location conducive to trade, and 98% of the total value of its trade 
is carried by sea. This is a crucial advantage in facilitating the achievement of the four objectives 
of its 2011 plan fo r society and development.  
4.4.  As mentioned by the Chairperson, Tunisia has significantly reduced the level of protection 
since its previous review in 2005, by applying an average tariff of 32.1% to agricultural products, 
as compared with the 67% of a little o ver ten years ago, and one of 9.6% to non agricultural 
products. Although this constitutes significant progress, and comparison is very often made with 
the tariffs bound in the WTO, which average 120% for agricultural products, those tariff levels 
nonethel ess remain very high if the Tunisian Government is to achieve its objective of becoming 
an export power.  
4.5.  This tariff structure, which impedes exports, has compelled the Tunisian Government to have 
recourse to a fiscal, foreign exchange, customs and incenti ves regime applicable to wholly export 
oriented enterprises which differs from that applicable to enterprises which are partially export 
oriented or produce exclusively to meet the domestic demand.  
4.6.  With reference to trade facilitation, my delegation wishes  to commend the Tunisian 
Government on having notified its Category A measures in September 2014. In this connection, 
we would draw attention to the major efforts made by Tunisia to apply the other provisions of the 
Agreement on a national scale.  
4.7.  In relati on to services, the most notable development is the tenfold increase in call centres 
since the last review, to reach an annual turnover of €250 million and provide employment for 
18,000 people. I would also like to highlight, once again, the investments th at the Tunisian 
Government is making to diversify tourism exports and other skilled labour intensive services 
exports.  
4.8.  However, we note that Tunisia has several incentives which, because of their complexity and 
the cost of applying them, have failed to gen erate the desired number of jobs. According to the 
Secretariat report, it is estimated that a mere 10% of enterprises have benefited from 90% of the 
tax concessions and that they have generated less than 2% of the number of jobs anticipated. It 
would be us eful if Minister Hassen could explain to us in greater detail how these incentives 
operate.  
4.9.  This situation worsens if we take into account the fact that Tunisia reserves the right to 
engage in trade, including imports, exports, and wholesale and retail dis tribution, for Tunisian 
nationals, while foreigners are required to set up a company and export at least 30% of goods or 
services of Tunisian origin. These provisions could be contrary to the Agreement on Trade Related 
Investment Measures.  
4.10.   I would like to conclude by urging Tunisia to continue with its economic development and 
thanking it for the replies to the questions posed by my delegation, both those already sent and 
the follow -up questions concerning Tunisia’s foreign trade strategy which we will be s ending today.  
4.11.   We wish His Excellency the Minister and the Tunisian delegation a successful review.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  UNITED  STATES  
4.12.   To say that Tunisia, and indeed the Middl e East and North African (MENA) region broadly, 
has become a different place since 2005 would, of cour se, be an epic understatement. The 
revolutions and other upheavals which have swept the MENA region in recent years got their start, 
after all, in Tunisia 's Jasmine Revolution of 2011. Tunisians have earned the respect and 
admiration of the world for perse vering through a tumultuous political period and still producing 
the widely praised new Constitution of 2014.  
4.13.   And yet, as the Secretariat 's report notes, in trade and investment policy matters, there 
remain considerable challenges for the Tunisian Governme nt to tackle. The Government continues 
to face a massive task of reforming and introducing new legislation in a broad range of economic 
areas, so it is understandable that some prioritization has to be made. We are convinced, however, 
that trade and invest ment will play a vital role in Tunisia 's economic future, so we encourage our 
Tunisian friends to address needs in these areas as soon as possible.  
4.14.   As the Secretariat report indicates, Tunisia has been able to retain, despite the upheavals of 
recent years,  its status as an advanced emerging economy in significant part due to its long 
standing role as a trade and investment hub, particularly vis -à-vis Europe, and its well -educated 
workforce. However, various impediments to growth in exporting, including over ly complex 
regulations, the lack of diversification in actors permitted to participate in trade, and cumbersome 
customs procedures, have prevented Tunisian companies from reaping greater gains from foreign 
trade.  
4.15.   Moreover, the Secretariat notes that contin ued heavy involvement of state -owned 
enterprises in various areas of economic activity has likely held back development of Tunisia 's 
export competitiveness, even though Tunisia is internationally recognized for the export of certain 
products, such as olive  oil and dates. Tunisia 's participation in the WTO system has also been 
modest, since Tunisia remains outside the network of Members who have joined the Government 
Procurement and Information Technology Agreements; we are, however, pleased that Tunisia has  
indicated its intention to accept the Trade Facilitation Agreement and hope notification of its formal 
ratification will come very soon.  
4.16.   Since 2005, the United States has worked closely with the Tunisian Government and private 
sector to enhance the bilate ral trade and investment relationship, especially under the auspices of 
the 2002 U.S. -Tunisia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA). In the wake of the 
revolution of 2010 -11, the United States quickly sought to re -energize the TIFA consultation 
process, with the aim of identifying and addressing significant issues in the areas of market 
access, services and investment, and intellectual property rights protection, which could have a 
positive impact on commercial ties between our countries.  
4.17.   We have been pleased to see Tunisian producers enjoying growing success via participation 
in the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, and are committed to working with 
our Tunisian colleagues to help Tunisia maximize the benefits it can derive fro m GSP.  
4.18.   Tunisia represents the potential for positive change in the MENA region that will lift people 
out of economic malaise and political turmoil into prosperity for all members of society. While 
Tunisia indeed holds that potential, reforms in a number of  areas would promote foreign business 
interest in the Tunisian market. Many of the questions we pose today reflect our desire to better 
communicate to U.S. private sector operators the opportunities and challenges that wait them in 
Tunisia. For example, we  seek in particular additional information on various aspects of Tunisia 's 
investment regime, which the Government has been attempting to reform for some time.  
4.19.   Customs issues will be the key to the smoother operation of Tunisia 's trading infrastructure, 
as will Tunisia 's approach to its government procurement practices. The future direction of the 
agriculture sector will be critical for the overall development of Tunisia 's economy, and trade will 
be an important dimension to that development. In addition, s ince the United States has always 
advocated for strong intellectual property protections as essential to creating a business -friendly 
economy, and thereby attracting needed foreign investment, we seek greater clarity with respect 
to a number of Tunisian po licies in this area.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  4.20.   In closing, it is our judgment that Tunisia remains on the cusp of advancing to a more 
robust integration into the global trading system, if the Government and the private sector 
continue to demonstrate the same will that has allowed T unisia to come so far, through so much, 
since the revolution. The United States remains ready to work with Tunisia to strengthen our 
cooperation both in the WTO and bilateral arenas.  
OMAN  
4.21.   Oman enjoys very close relations with Tunisia. We share a long histo ry, as well as fraternal 
and cultural bonds and many bilateral cooperating programmes. Our shared characteristics have 
served to enhance business opportunities and trading between our two countries. Oman and 
Tunisia are also closely bound in economic and t rade relations under the umbrella of the Arab 
League.  
4.22.   Since its last Trade Policy R eview, Tunisia has continued to implement a proactive policy of 
open trade practices and integration into the global economy. In spite of the socio -political crisis 
that hit s Tunisia at the end of 2010 and the disruptions that followed, including the series of 
attacks culminating in 2015, economic growth has remained positive, thanks largely to the relative 
diversification of the country 's economy to its trade performance, an d to its well -educated labour 
force. In fact, Tunisia is classified by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as a 
country of high human development. And despite the socio -political crisis, Tunisia has recorded a 
strong budgetary performance which  has helped maintain its macroeconomic stability. And since 
its previous TPR , Tunisia has made significant headway according to the indicators of the World 
Bank's Doing Business programme, and ranked 74th of 189 countries in 2016 in terms of ease of 
doing business. The Tunisian economy is among the most competitive African and Arab economies 
and provides businesses with an environment that is conducive to business. This is a testimony to 
the resilience and diversity of the Tunisian 's economy. The 2016 -2020 Five-Year Plan was being 
prepared in April 2016; according to the authorities, it provides for the promotion of investment 
and exports especially by improving the business environment, liberalizing economic activities, 
eliminating certain authorizations, e asing access to financing, better governance and a more 
effective investment incentive scheme. Tunisia is an original Member of the WTO and grants at 
least MFN treatment to all its trading partners. November 2014 saw the adoption of the Protocol of 
Amendme nt to insert the Agreement on Trade Facilitation into Annex 1A of the WTO Agreement. 
Tunisia 's ratification process  was in progress in April 2016. Since Tunisia 's previous Trade Policy 
Review in 2005, the country has taken measures to facilitate trade and thus lessen the time 
needed for customs clearance of imports. New trade facilitation measures have been introduced 
with the aim of making customs clearance paperless, for example, through electronic processing.  
4.23.   Tunisia is a faithful adherent to the WTO and  continues to be strongly committed to the 
open, rules -based multilateral trading system and underscores the central role of the WTO in this 
regard. Tunisia believes that the current trend towards a proliferation of mega -regional trade and 
investment agree ments that exclude most developing countries is likely to have a profound impact 
on those countries. Their exports will be in competition with those of other countries that enjoy 
exclusive trade preferences under the agreements, reducing their competitiven ess. 
4.24.   Tunisia is one of the world 's leading exporters of olive oil and specialties (such as dates, 
"harissa ", oranges and seafood) for which it is internationally recognized.  
4.25.   Tunisia had not been directly involved, as complainant or defendant, in any trade dispute 
settlement proceeding in the WTO.  
4.26.   Tunisia has been actively pursuing a policy of economic diversification.  
4.27.   A proactive approach is the hallmark of Tunisia 's economic policy which is based on 
diversification, exports and technology. With its skilled  labour force and focus on development of 
human resources, Tunisia has huge opportunities and potentials in many sectors such as 
agriculture, minerals, manufacturing, services and technology.  
4.28.   Despite many challenges that Tunisia has faced in the last six y ears, Tunisia has 
demonstrated great resilience through the national dialogue that lead to stability in political 
environment and has succeeded in maintaining the major macroeconomic equilibria.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  4.29.   We would like to commend the Government and people of Tunisia  for their unity and ability 
to maintain the stability and performance of the country through the difficult times.  
4.30.   Tunisia is an active Member of the WTO negotiations and plays an important role in the work 
of the Arab Group and African Group.  
4.31.   Finally, I w ould like to express our thanks to all Members of the distinguished delegation of 
Tunisia in Geneva for their active engagement and role in furthering the interests of the Arab 
Group at the WTO.  
EUROPEAN  UNION   
4.32.   It is now 11 years since Tunisia's last trade  policy review and the country's situation has 
changed considerably since then. The European Union would like to take advantage of this meeting 
to commend the courageous efforts made by Tunisia in very difficult circumstances, which include 
the impact of t he financial crisis, the geopolitical risks associated with the conflict in Libya and the 
terrorist threats which Tunisia mentions in its report as having confronted the Tunisian economy 
with serious challenges.  
4.33.   I would like to profit from this occasion to  welcome, on behalf of the EU, the launching of 
extensive reforms in such difficult circumstances. For example, there is the new Investment Code 
and its enabling decrees, from which the EU expects much and whose effective implementation 
could simplify the operating conditions for foreign investors and consolidate them by sector. The 
WTO Secretariat has noted that so far trade policy has not been incorporated in the far reaching 
reforms carried out since the adoption of a new constitution in 2014. The EU kee nly hopes that the 
Tunisian delegation will have the opportunity to tell us more about its trade and investment 
strategy.  
4.34.   The European Union is at Tunisia's side in its efforts to progress. The Secretariat report 
draws attention to a number of measures whi ch seem to us absolutely necessary and, moreover, 
reflect the conclusions of Tunisia's second trade policy review in 2005, that is, the importance of 
eliminating the dualism between exported oriented enterprises and enterprises devoted to the 
domestic mark et in order to establish similar market operating conditions for all and the 
importance of continuing to facilitate procedures and improve transparency for economic 
operators.  
4.35.   As regards the bilateral trade relations between Tunisia and the EU, they are ve ry close: the 
EU is Tunisia's main partner for both its imports and its exports. Between 1998 and 2015, Tunisian 
exports to the EU almost tripled and 3,000 EU enterprises have established themselves in Tunisia 
and created around 300,000 jobs.  
4.36.   We have begun  discussions on developing bilateral trade by launching, in October 2015, 
negotiations for a new generation DCFTA (Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement), which 
will go well beyond trade in goods. This should provide a means of integrating our econom ies with 
a view to granting Tunisia better access to the European market.  
4.37.   In addition to two instances of macroeconomic financial aid in support of IMF funds for 
strengthening the country's monetary reserves and around €1.2 billion of development assistanc e 
between 2011 and 2015, the EU is ready to back up the negotiation and implementation of the 
DCFTA with a series of accompanying measures designed to maintain the current reform process 
and contribute to the upgrading of certain key sectors such as agricu lture and services and to 
provide support for the private sector.  
4.38.   Given the length of time that has elapsed since the last Trade Policy Review, we have found 
it difficult to be brief. The EU hopes that Tunisia will see nothing in our numerous questions oth er 
than a sign of our considerable interest.  
4.39.   We have asked questions on:  
 Tunisia's customs procedures, which we think could be further improved, and on risk 
management (in relation to both imports and exports);  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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   on certain foreign exchange restrictions whic h could create obstacles for some operators, in 
particular in the pharmaceuticals sector;  
 on the Government's intentions with regard to government procurement;  
 on the implementation of the new law on competition; and  
 on the rules relating to public private  partnership, to mention only a few examples.  
4.40.   We would have preferred Tunisia to have opted for the alternative scheme in order to have 
received the replies to our questions before the meeting, but the fact that the exercise is taking 
place is in itself a notable achievement. Other countries are still on the waiting list and have been 
for very much longer. We wish Tunisia much success in these two days of discussions.  
CHINA  
4.41.   We are glad to see Tunisia 's economy remained  positive during the review period, whi ch is 
to a large extent attributed to its strong trade performance.  We are also glad to learn that many 
reform measures have been taken to address the dualism of the Tunisian economy, such as 
improving transparency and rule of law, embarking on the reform of investment code, adopting a 
new law on competition and pricing, and modernizing banking sector 's legal framework. We 
welcome Tunisia 's new development plan to establish an innovative, high -technology, inclusive and 
sustainable economy, where trade could  continue to play an important role.  
4.42.   As a trading nation, Tunisia has been embracing open trade policy, while its trade policy has 
not been updated for quite some time and unfortunately not yet included in its far -reaching 
economic reform. We encourage Tun isia to take more concrete trade reform measures to increase 
the competitiveness of Tunisian enterprises, such as further diversifying its merchandise trade and 
developing trade in services.  
4.43.   Coming to the multilateral front, Tunisia has fulfilled its inter national commitment in a 
positive manner. We are pleased to see the Tunisia Government chose to reduce its applied tariff 
from 45% in 2006 to 14% in 2016. We welcome the progress of Tunisia in ratifying the WTO 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation and expect it s domestic procedures to be completed as quickly as 
possible. We also welcome the efforts of the Tunisian Government to explore its accession into the 
Information Technology Agreement. As an original Member of the WTO, we commend that Tunisia 
is firmly com mitted to the faire and rule -based multilateral trading system. We look forward to 
working with Tunisia and other Members towards a successful multilateral conclusion of the Doha 
Round in accordance with its existing mandate and architecture.  
4.44.   Bilateral eco nomic ties between China and Tunisia continue to deepen and widen in the past 
decade, despite of the social -political crisis at the end of 2010. According to China 's statistics, 
bilateral trade volume in 2015 reached US$1.4 billion compared to US$340 milli on in 2005. The 
accumulated investment from China to Tunisia was US$146 million by the end of last yea r, while 
Tunisian investment in China reached US$48 million.  
4.45.   We have raised some questions about Tunisia 's trade policy, covering areas of investment, 
law related to hygiene and health, access of Chinese medicine services and intellectual property 
protection. We appreciate the Tunisia 's delegation for their responses to our questions which we 
will study carefully.  
CANADA  
4.46.   First of all, may I congratulate the  Tunisian Republic on having succeeded in consolidating 
its democracy following the revolution of 2011, despite major security and socio -economic 
challenges. However, even though Tunisia's economy continued to grow by 1% in 2015, 
the forecasts for 2016 are  still lacklustre1 and well below the country's capacity. However, 
despite  this situation, investors continue to express their optimism.  
                                                
1 Tunisia, Country Report by EIU, May  2016.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  4.47.   Since its last Trade Policy Review, the Tunisian Republic has continued to pursue liberal 
economic policies characteriz ed by a more open regional and international environment, as 
recently evidenced by its presentation of a new five -year development plan for the period 
2016-2020. The Tunisian Government is undertaking reforms aimed at restoring growth and 
improving employm ent. 
4.48.   Canada also welcomes the adoption, in April  2016, of the law on the independence of the 
Central Bank, as well as those on public -private partnership and on competition and prices 
adopted in 2015. We believe that these laws will make it possible to div ersify the State's sources 
of financing while improving transparency and national competitiveness. We also believe in the 
need for effective reform of the public sector.  
4.49.   The Tunisian Republic is one of the priority countries identified by the Government of  
Canada as offering the best potential for Canadian trade interests. Moreover, we are proud to 
support economic growth in the Tunisian Republic by contributing to the financing of the 
Financial  Centre for Entrepreneurs (CFE). The CFE is an organization, ma naged by Développement 
international Desjardins, that offers financial and microcredit services to Tunisian entrepreneurs 
wanting to set up and develop small businesses.  
4.50.   The Tunisian Republic is in the process of implementing the measures necessary to incr ease 
its commercial attractiveness, especially by promoting private investment. In this connection, a 
few years ago, Canada and the Tunisian Republic entered into negotiations with a view to 
concluding a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreemen t (FIPA). Canada is convinced 
that FIPAs are beneficial and make it possible to increase investment in sectors in which the States 
parties seek excellence. We urge you to continue improving the business climate in your country, 
in particular by adopting a long-awaited new investment code.  
4.51.   Canada and the Tunisian Republic have also welcomed the recent preliminary discussions 
concerning a social security agreement. The conclusion of such an agreement between Canada and 
the Tunisian Republic will boost trade a nd investment between our two countries by reducing the 
operating costs for enterprises active in the Tunisian Republic and in Canada.  
4.52.   We encourage the Tunisian Republic to resist protectionist pressures and to pursue its 
efforts to liberalize trade. In th is connection, it would be advisable for the Tunisian Republic to 
consider participating in the WTO's plurilateral initiatives, for example by becoming an observer in 
relation to the Agreement on Government Procurement. We also recommend the earliest possi ble 
ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement. Furthermore, in 2015, UNCTAD recommended that 
the Tunisian Republic should sign the Information Technology Agreement. We invite the 
Tunisian  Republic to follow that recommendation.  
4.53.   Canada expects the di scussions on the policies governing the economy of the 
Tunisian  Republic to prove very fruitful. Finally, Canada wishes the delegation every possible 
success in performing its task and would like to reiterate its appreciation of the opportunity it has 
been given to participate in this review.  
BRAZIL  
4.54.   First and foremost we would like to congratulate the Tunisian people for its democratic 
achievement in 2011. We are following with interest the natural unfolding of the process and the 
setting of its milestones,  such as the new Constitution and the general elections, both in 2014. 
Brazil believes that this fertile soil must be carefully cultivated and so the democratic system 
should be nurtured by sustainable economic growth. In this sense, we appreciate that the  Tunisian 
government is aiming to improve the domestic business environment and attract investments. The 
multilateral trading system and rules have a key role to play in this process. Tunisia can also 
increase trade performance by diversifying trading part ners and the list of goods and services. 
Such ideas can already be found in the Tunisian TPR report and Brazil is ready and willing to 
contribute for their fruition.   
4.55.   A key development highlighted by the WTO Secretariat is the setting of a Tunisian 
institutional framework guided by principles such as coherence, transparency and the rule of law. 
This leads to predictability on taxation, systematic reviewing of regulations and measures related WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  to trade facilitation. Since its 2005 TPR, Tunisia has also been reducing tariffs and the Secretariat 
notes that this in part reflects the desire to align the MFN tariff with the preferences granted for 
non-agricultural products under the agreement with the European Union. Brazil hopes the tariff 
reduction treatment be also dispensed to agricultural products, along with an eventual 
enlargement of tariff rate quotas, particularly on bovine meat.  
4.56.   Brazil hopes to deepen its bilateral relationship with Tunisia. The bilateral trade flows remain 
relatively modest, accounting f or 360 billion US dollars in 2015. The Brazilian list of exports to 
Tunisia is dominated by traditional goods like sugar and soy. The imports focus on fertilizers 
(phosphate), some electrical machinery and a few chemicals. We believe there is plenty of roo m 
for expansion and diversification. The same applies for investments. Brazilian cement companies 
already have ties with their Tunisian counterp arts and we must move forward. Since 2014, our 
governments have been exploring an Agreement on Cooperation and F acilitation of Investments, 
which, once concluded, will provide for a framework to further strengthen the economic links 
between our countries.  
4.57.   We stand ready to increase and diversify our cooperation with Tunisia as well. We are 
convinced that strengthen ing cooperation among developing countries is an important means to 
enable the sharing of technologies and practices developed under similar social and economic 
conditions.  
4.58.   Brazil continues to follow with interest domestic developments in Tunisia with rega rd to its 
trade policy. We have submitted some questions and are looking forward to the replies. We wish 
Tunisia a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.59.   Despite the daunting challenges due to the political, the social, and the securi ty crisis, the 
Tunisian economy remained resilient and open. The Government has maintained its strategy to 
diversify its economy, liberalize its foreign trade regime and improve its trade performance, and its 
well-educated labour force capacities.  
4.60.   The King dom of Saudi Arabia welcomes the efforts of Tunisia in sustaining macroeconomic 
stability and pursuing an open and transparent trade and investment regime. There are a number 
of reasons to be optimistic about the positive economic transformation of the cou ntry especially 
after the large stimulus structural reforms undertaken by the Government in different sectors such 
as public sector, finance, tax and subsidy systems, tariff lines, pricing and competition, customs 
procedures, and action to combat fraud.  
4.61.   Much has been achieved in the past three years to create an environment to attract 
investment and stimulate growth and job creation. There has been an intensive effort to simplify 
regulations to register new businesses and renew permits and reduce administra tive hurdles. The 
opening up of the telecommunications sector has improved services and brought prices down. The 
ambitious project, Tunisia Digital 2018, to ensure access to broadband internet throughout the 
country, is a significant investment in providin g the infrastructure for businesses.  
4.62.   Saudi Arabia and Tunisia are prominent trading partners; in 2015, trade exchange between 
the two countries surpassed US$300 million. Saudi Arabia is among the largest investors in 
Tunisia. The Saudi -Tunisian Business Co uncil was founded in 2002 to promote cooperation in 
trade, investment, transportation, infrastructure, agriculture and tourism.  
4.63.   In 2015, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia signed a Memorandum of Understanding and three 
agreements in the field of civil protection and  civil defence , in financing the construction of a power 
station in Tunisia, and in regulating the transport of persons and goods by roads.  
4.64.   Tunisia has proved its commitment to support the multilateral trading system and the WTO, 
and has demonstrated its d esire to continue to play an active role in the promotion of free and 
open trade.  
4.65.   In this regard, I would like to appreciate the active role of H.E. Ambassador Walid Doudech 
and his delegation in the Arab Group and in WTO negotiations and other activities at large.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  MALI 
4.66.   Mali and Tunisia enjoy excellent political, economic, trade and cultural relations. The 
dramatic security circumstances which have shaken our common region, the Sahel, in recent years 
continue to unsettle the stability of our two countries, already sorely tried by a global economic 
environment very unfavourable for growth and development.  
4.67.   However, it is good to note that, despite this hostile environment, Tunisia has succeeded in 
maintaining its position in the group of upper middle income co untries, thanks to its courageous 
commitment to major reforms aimed at establishing good governance and improving the business 
environment, while implementing a policy for financing the economy and strengthening its budget 
balances.  
4.68.   Where sectoral policy i s concerned, we appreciate the Government of Tunisia's emphasis on 
the modernization of agriculture and industry, as well as on the diversification of the economy by 
means of digital technology and the exploitation of mineral resources, always in complianc e with 
environmental standards.  
4.69.   On this basis, Tunisia has resolutely opted for a liberal trade policy that favours integration 
into the global economy to achieve sustained growth and development, thanks in particular to 
technology transfer and the existen ce of a legislative framework that attracts foreign direct 
investment (FDI).  
4.70.   My delegation notes with interest the impressive results already produced by this policy 
choice of Tunisia's in relation to its foreign trade over the period 2011 2014, in export promotion in 
particular and in trade facilitation in general.  
4.71.   My delegation would like to seize this opportunity to acknowledge the notable efforts made 
by Tunisia to open up to the rest of the world, particularly the African countries, including Mali, and  
to encourage it to pursue and extend these reforms and, in particular, to achieve its reform plan 
objectives.  
4.72.   As a signatory of the Marrakesh Agreement of April 1994 establishing the WTO, Tunisia 
misses no opportunity to bear witness to its attachment to the multilateral trading system and to 
the importance of the WTO's role for the developing countries and LDCs.  
4.73.   My delegation shares the view expressed by Tunisia in favour of full implementation of the 
ministerial decisions taken at Bali and Nairobi.  
4.74.   Mali reaffirms its determination to spare no effort to strengthen and enrich its relationship of 
dynamic cooperation with Tunisia.  
MAURITIUS  
4.75.   Mauritius recognizes the effects of the internal and external factors that have stymied 
growth in Tunisia since the last  TPR of Tunisia in 2005. This situation is compounded by 
geopolitical factors that have a bearing on the Tunisian economy.  
4.76.   We recognize the efforts of the Government of Tunisia as laid down in the Strategic 
Orientation Note of September 2015 aimed at provi ding a framework for policy reforms and 
implementation of programmes and projects. The ultimate aim being to improve infrastructure, 
attract investment, modernize public utilities, improve public -private partnership, wipe out intra -
regional inequalities.  
4.77.   To build up to an innovative, high technology, inclusive and sustainable green economy 
would need to paradigm shifts, and we are encouraged by the resolve of the Government of 
Tunisia in that direction.  
4.78.   At the level of the AU, we embrace shared values of ef fective regional integration, 
improvements in the ease of doing business and the investment climate and enhanced trade in 
goods and services.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  4.79.   Mauritius and Tunisia are engaged in negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement and has 
already agreed on the Framewor k Text. What remains to be negotiated is the market access offers 
and the Rules of Origin requirements, which both Parties are committed to conclude in the near 
future.  
4.80.   By virtue of the Agreements that both our countries have with the EU  and the bilateral 
Agreement between Mauritius and Tunisia, one of our intentions is to create synergies between the 
three agreements in a way that would facilitate the free movement of goods on the three markets, 
to the extent possible on the basis of similar rules and to p romote the cumulation of origin. We 
also intend to consider extending the coverage of the FTA in future to cover Trade in Services and 
other Trade Related Issues to facilitate trade.  
4.81.   We have signed a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement 2008. Mauritius awai ts the 
response of the Tunisian authorities on the Draft Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement 
we have submitted as well as dynamisation of cooperation between the Board of Investment of 
Mauritius and the Foreign Investment Promotion Agency of Tuni sia. 
4.82.   The Ocean Economy is one sector which Mauritius and Tunisia both value as critical to 
leapfrog development. We intend to explore joint -venture possibilities in fishing and fish 
processing as well as development of the seafood hub, exchange of experien ce in marine 
aquaculture, fishing techniques as well as the possibility of sourcing raw tuna for processing.  
4.83.   Mauritius and Tunisia are also engaged at the Continental level to conclude a pan African 
FTA by 2017. The bilateral Agreement will be an important  complement to the CFTA and more 
ambitious in content and coverage.  
MADAGASCAR  
4.84.   Tunisia has experienced difficulties associated with the national, regional and international 
environment which have led to profound crises with a major impact on its economic g rowth. 
Despite the challenges it has faced, Tunisia has been able to define a new vision of development 
based on employment, higher incomes, equality of opportunity, shared prosperity, greater 
competitiveness, regional and social development, and sustainab le development.  
4.85.   Madagascar welcomes the reforms undertaken by Tunisia, which have made it possible to 
stabilize the main macroeconomic aggregates, with positive effects on the country's growth.  
4.86.   Madagascar notes with satisfaction the upward trend in Tunisia 's per capita GDP to €3,250 
in 2014 and its high level of human development.  
4.87.   My delegation commends the reforms undertaken by Tunisia in relation to its economic and 
trade practices, in particular those concerning export promotion, product diversification,  
competition, investment and the business climate, trade facilitation, tariff policy, agriculture, 
industry, and the digital economy.  
4.88.   My delegation welcomes Tunisia's attachment to the liberalization of trade and the 
strengthening of the multilateral tradi ng system.  
4.89.   Madagascar has a special bond with Tunisia. Thus, we are present at this review as friends 
and brother countries that share the use of the French language and form part of the same 
continent.  
4.90.   Many students from Madagascar have been educated in T unisia and others are still being 
educated there. The two countries would gain by strengthening their bilateral cooperation, 
improving the flow of trade between them and exploiting their investment opportunities.  
4.91.   My delegation welcomes Tunisia's firm inten tion to commit itself to pursuing the reforms 
undertaken to secure the country's economic, social and sustainable development.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.92.   Since Tunisia 's last Trade Policy R eview in 2005, its economi c growth has enjoyed positive 
performance during the decade except in 2011, when its ec onomy was severely hit by 
socio-political crisis occurred at the end of 2010. In 2014, the per capita GDP of Tunisia is €3,250 
which is 5% increase from 2011. We therefo re woul d like to commend the Tunisian G overnment 
for its successful economic recovery from the crisis. However, we notice that the unemployment 
rate in Tunisia is quiet high around 15%. It indicates that the Tunisian G overnment needs to 
continue its struct ural reforms in order to attracting foreign investment, boosting economic growth 
and creating more jobs.  
4.93.   According to the World Bank 's Doing Business program me, Tunisia has made significant 
improvement in business environment, and ranked 74th of 189 countr ies in 2016. However, 
Tunisia 's competitiveness performance ranked 92nd of 140 economies in 2016, according to the 
Global Competitiveness Report, gradually retreated from 83rd of 148 economies in 2014. Tunisia 
particularly got low scores in some efficiency  indicators, including goods market, labo ur market, 
and financial market efficiency. Therefore, we encourage Tunisia to take further institutional 
reforms to enhance its market efficiency and improve its competitiveness.  
4.94.   In terms of prohibitions and quanti tative restrictions of import, we notice that the products 
whose importation may be prohibited or restricted from the subject of a 1994 law on "exclusion 
from the free import regime ". The list of products excluded from the regime has not changed since 
2001. Currently, there are more than 800 tariff lines at 9 -digit HS level in the list. We therefore 
urge Tunisia to review the long -standing list of products, and to remove products from the list 
accordingly.  
4.95.   While recognizing the efforts Tunisia made to simp lify its Customs procedures, we would like 
to encourage Tunisia to ratify the Trade Facilitation Agreement as soon as possible. It is evident 
that the improvements of trade facilitation will bring important benefits to Members, especially to 
developing Mem bers, including reducing trade costs, as well as establishing better investment 
environment, and increasing competitiveness.  
4.96.   With respect to the tariff regime in Tunisia, since 2005, the Tunisian G overnment has 
gradually lowered its import tariffs, partly in an effort to reduce smuggling and combat corruption. 
The overall simple average MFN applied rate in 2016 is 14.1%, significantly reducing from 31% in 
2005. We welcome the efforts made by Tunisia to improve its tariff regime. However, Tunisia still 
maint ains relatively high tariffs in agricultural products which average 32.1% in 2016. We would 
therefore encourage the Tunisian government to consider further reducing those high tariffs in 
agricultural products for promoting trade.  
4.97.   While overall bilateral tr ade between Tunisia and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, 
Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu was still moderate, US$64 million in 2015, we look forward to a 
continuously expanding trade relationship between our two economies in the future.  
4.98.   In conclusion, we strongly encourage Tunisia to continue its regulatory and structural 
reforms for the improvement of its business and investment environment and to further liberalize 
its market for actively participating in global value chain.  
INDIA  
4.99.   At the bilateral level , India and Tunisia enjoy cordial and friendly relations, which have been 
expanding in recent years in diverse sectors. The Vice President of India paid an official visit to 
Tunisia last month, which has paved a robust path forward for further deepening of  our bilateral 
ties. Earlier, the Foreign Minister of Tunisia led the Tunisian delegation to India to attend the third 
India Africa Forum Summit in October 2015. The bilateral trad e grew by 95% from about 
US$183  million in the year 2005 -06 to about US$358 million in the year 2015 -16. Indian exports 
to Tunisia increased to about US$222 million in the year 2015 -16 from about US$82 million in the 
year 2005 -06. On the investment front, Indian companies have invested in Tunisia in sectors such 
as fertilizers, po wer transmission, automobiles, etc. One major joint -venture, namely Tunisia -India 
Fertilizer SA (TIFERT), with investment of about US$450 million, was made operational in 2013. 
During the period under review, both Governments have taken initiatives to fost er trade and WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  investment linkages in sector such as energy, SMEs, drugs and pharmaceuticals, textiles and ICT. 
As part of South -South co -operation, India has been a close development partner of Tunisia and 
has undertaken capacity building and technical assi stance initiatives under the Indian Technical 
and Economic Cooperation programme. We look forward to building on these initiatives and 
deepen our partnership with Tunisia further.  
4.100.   Notwithstanding socio -political challenges, the Tunisian economy posted posi tive growth 
rates during the decade, thanks largely to the relative diversification of the country 's economy, 
and to its skilled labour force. We appreciate that Tunisia is classified by the United Nations 
Development Programme (UNDP) as a country with hig h human development index, with a low 
rate of extreme poverty (0.7% of the population) and gender equality, with women holding 31% 
of seats in the Assembly of the Representatives of the People. Tunisia adopted a new Constitution 
in 2014 which paved the way  for significant changes in the legal, political and institutional 
frameworks.  
4.101.   While the Tunisian economy has maintained positive growth trajectory, it continues to face 
the challenges on socio -economic and trade policy front such as: (i) containing high l evels of 
unemployment of over 15%; (ii) attracting foreign investment; (iii) Government 's large presence 
in various economic activities in which it holds a monopoly or an exclusivity right, together with 
restrictions on private investment; (iv) the substan tial increase in the trade gap, which has 
contributed to widening the external current account deficit to  9% of GDP in 2015; and 
(v) depreciation of its currency Dinar. We note that the Government is committed to extensive 
reforms to achieve steady growth,  implementing a proactive policy of open trade regime and 
practices and integrating into the global economy, enhance competitiveness and boost 
employment, and improving the business climate for investors. We note that the strategic 
orientation note and dev elopment plan for 2016 -2020 sets out the thrust of these reforms and the 
development objectives for the coming period. We encourage Tunisia to continue to implement 
economic reforms to establish a favourable and predictable environment for economic activit y and 
growth, thus paving the way for successful economic and social transition, and a pathway to 
sustainable development.  
4.102.   We commend Tunisia 's commitment to the multilateral trading system and appreciate its 
participation in the Doha Round negotiations as  a member of Africa Group, G -90 and W -52 group.  
SINGAPORE  
4.103.   Singapore enjoys friendly relations with Tunisia. While the amount of bilateral trade is 
currently modest, we hope that the bilateral economic relations will strengthen as Tunisia becomes 
more integ rated into the global trading system in the future.  
4.104.   We note that Tunisia 's new development model supports an innovative, high technology, 
inclusive economy that is conducive to sustainable development. We also take note of the major 
reforms which Tunisia h as planned in its Five -Year Plan for the period 2016 -2020. We have 
confidence that Tunisia will progress further to fulfil its objectives of a shift from a low -cost 
economy to an economic hub, human development and social inclusion, inclusive and 
comprehen sive regional development and a green economy for a sustainable environment.  
4.105.   We would like to commend Tunisia on their notification of Category A commitments for the 
WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. We note from the Secretariat 's report that Tunisia was i n the 
process of ratifying the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and we look forward to Tunisia 's early 
acceptance of the Protocol of Amendment to insert the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement into 
Annex 1 of the WTO Agreement. We would also strongly encourag e Tunisia to accept the Protocol 
amending the TRIPS Agreement.  
4.106.   We note that Tunisia has a number of outstanding notifications and we call on Tunisia to 
make continued efforts with respect to the outstanding notifications.  
MOROCCO  ON BEHALF  OF THE AFRICAN  GROUP  
4.107.   It is an immense pleasure for the African Group to participate today in Tunisia's third Trade 
Policy Review which, I am sure, will provide an opportunity for Members to acquaint themselves WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  with the economic and trade reforms carried out by this friend  and brother country in the 
multilateral trading system. This review will also provide a platform for demonstrating the capacity 
for resilience of the Tunisian economy, which in the course of the last few years has evolved in an 
environment characterized b y the effects of a succession of internal and external events abounding 
in crises and challenges.  
4.108.   Despite the upheavals experienced by Tunisia since the end of 2010, which have had 
serious repercussions on the trend in the growth and development of its eco nomy, this brother 
country has succeeded in maintaining the main macroeconomic balances while continuing to 
record positive economic rates of growth, in large part sustained by the diversification of the 
economy and a strong trade performance.  
4.109.   At economic level, with a per capita GDP equivalent to €3,250 in 2014, Tunisia has 
remained in the group of upper middle income countries, in accordance with the World Bank 
classification. Tunisia is also one of the countries classified by the UNDP as being at a high level of 
human development.  
4.110.   Trade has always been an important source of wealth for Tunisia, a major trading nation 
which has taken advantage of its central position within the Mediterranean region to trade in 
numerous products and whose markets have serve d as a hub for trade between Sub Saharan 
Africa. Europe and the countries of Asia.  
4.111.   The importance of trade for the Tunisian economy has remained high, with a ratio of trade 
in goods and services to GDP of around 90%. However, the fall in the contribution o f exports to 
GDP and the concomitant rise in imports suggest that further reforms are needed to restore the 
competitiveness of Tunisian enterprises.  
4.112.   In this connection, it should be noted that a plan for ambitious reforms has already been 
put in place, and  numerous regulations affecting competition, investment, government 
procurement and justice have been adopted, while others are in the process of being introduced.  
4.113.   As for Tunisia's trade policy, it reflects a steady attachment to trade liberalization and 
increased integration into the global economy, which is making a major contribution to growth and 
development, technology transfer and the attraction of more FDI.  
4.114.   Meanwhile, Tunisia is continuing to promote trade facilitation, an issue in which it has a 
special interest mainly because of its crucial role in improving the competitiveness of Tunisian 
SMEs and in strengthening global and regional integration.  
4.115.   In this connection, the reforms undertaken, firstly in tariff policy and then in simplifying 
and modern izing the procedures for accompanying open market policies, deserve special attention.  
4.116.   The country is also continuing to carry out far reaching sectoral reforms in the areas of 
agriculture, industry and the digital economy, which is regarded as a major opp ortunity and a 
driver of economic and social development.  
4.117.   The African Group also welcomes Tunisia's vision of free trade as a necessary condition for 
strengthening competitiveness and productivity over the long term.  
4.118.   It should be recalled that Tunisia has concluded free trade agreements with the European 
Union, the European Free Trade Association, the Greater Arab Free Trade Area, Turkey, Egypt, 
Jordan and Morocco within the context of the Agadir Agreement.  
4.119.   Indeed, Tunisia is actively strengthening its bila teral and regional ties with several 
countries and economic blocks. The policy followed consists in consolidating its exports to its 
traditional trading partners while improving access to new markets characterized by dynamic 
growth.  
4.120.   In April 1994, Tunisia signed the Marrakesh Agreement establishing the World Trade 
Organization, thus becoming an original Member of this Organization. It is a country that defends WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  the multilateral trading system and is one of the African countries to have submitted a Category A  
notification under the Trade Facilitation Agreement, which is in process of being ratified.  
4.121.   Its interests, like those of the African Group, relate preponderantly to the DDP and the 
implementation of the results of Bali and Nairobi, as well as to the pursu it of the trade 
liberalization programme and the reform of the disciplines governing world trade to make the rules 
fairer and eliminate the existing distortions on world markets, including, in particular, the 
agricultural product markets.  
4.122.   Tunisia's vision is broadly shared by the member countries of the African Group.  
4.123.   Finally, may I congratulate the Tunisian Government on its successful political transition, 
which should enable the country to create a favourable environment for economic activity and 
growth and put it on the path to a successful economic and social transition and sustainable 
development.  
BENIN 
4.124.   The Delegation of Benin would like to pay tribute to the efforts made by the 
Tunisian  Government to implement reforms which have produced substantial r esults at the level of 
the Tunisian economy since its last Trade Policy Review in 2005. Thus, despite the difficult 
socio-economic context, the Government has been able to maintain the main 
macroeconomic  balances.  
4.125.   These results have been obtained despite a n economic environment characterized by the 
effects of a succession of external and internal shocks to which Tunisia has responded 
with resilience.  
4.126.   Over the present review period, the Tunisian economy has been characterized by 
two phases, namely, a first p hase marked by growth with considerable potential, albeit 
non-inclusive, at a rate of 5.2%, and a second phase characterized by a new vision of 
development founded on the following main pillars:  
 economic efficiency based on innovation and partnership;  
 inclusion as the basis of social justice;  
 regional development;  
 the green economy and the valorization of the development process.  
4.127.   While welcoming the reforms undertaken, the delegation of Benin would like to encourage 
Tunisia to pursue them further, particula rly in connection with the public banking sector, taxation 
and the new Investment Code, as well as in the administrative, judicial and security system. 
The delegation of Benin welcomes the establishment of the High Council for Anti -Corruption and 
the Recov ery of State Assets and Property.  
4.128.   As far as the improvement of the business environment is concerned, the new Investment 
Code provides an incentivizing framework by offering free access to markets with the abolition of 
authorizations for almost all activit ies, for both Tunisians and foreigners without distinction, 
and the simplification of procedures.  
4.129.   The delegation of Benin appreciates Tunisia's signing of the Final Act on Appellations of 
Origin and Geographical Indications.  
4.130.   The delegation of Benin notes t hat the European Union remains the primary destination for 
Tunisian exports and welcomes the improvement observed in Tunisia's exports to Africa, 
in particular Sub -Saharan Africa. Services accounted for 40% of total tertiary export income over 
the period 2 010-2014, followed by the transport sector with 26%. Tunisia has also taken steps to 
diversify its exports by strengthening its bilateral and regional links with several countries and 
regional blocs.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  4.131.   Within the context of trade facilitation, Tunisia has in dependently and drastically reduced 
its import tariffs over the years. The simple average customs duty has fallen from 27% in 2006 
to 14.9% since 2011 and 14.1% in 2016.  
4.132.   The delegation of Benin congratulates Tunisia on its commitment to the Doha Developmen t 
Programme and its contribution to the multilateral trade negotiations associated with the 
Doha Round, as well as on its commitment to the constructive exploration of possible ways of 
determining and implementing the Post -Nairobi Work Programme.  
JAPAN  
4.133.   The report by the Secretariat notes that Tunisia has shown a robust economic growth 
recently in spite of the socio -political crisis at the end of 2010 and the following disruptions. 
Although its economy decelerated in 2015 mainly due to the collapse of touris m and trade deficit, 
the country has already undertaken the structural reforms aiming to modernize its economy. 
Reforms have been introduced in the areas of investment, insurance system, transport, tourism, 
the ICT and so forth. Japan positively evaluates continuous efforts made by the Tunisian 
Government, and hopes that these efforts lead Tunisia to a more resilient and diversified economy.  
4.134.   In terms of custom duty, overall, the level of protection has fallen greatly for most sectors 
since the last Trade Po licy Review. The average tariff rate fell from about 45% in 2006 to 14% in 
2016. Japan commends Tunisia 's efforts.  
4.135.   With regard to the TF Agreement, Tunisia has already notified its Category A 
commitments. Japan encourages Tunisia to finalize its internal p rocess toward ratification of the TF 
Agreement.  
4.136.   Now, I would like to briefly touch upon investment policies.  
4.137.   Japan believes that the Tunisian Government is now undertaking reforms aiming to attract 
foreign direct investment, including the establishment of the "Guichet Unique Commercial " by the 
Ministry of Commerce and the Export Promotion Centre, CEPEX, which is commendable. According 
to the Japanese companies in Tunisia, the "Guichet Unique Commercial " has played an important 
role in simplifying the admini strative procedures.  
4.138.   Although Japan commends the efforts in this area, we are concerned with regarding the 
procedures related to issuance of the Letter of Credit which is necessary to import products from 
Japan. According to the Japanese companies in Tunis ia, the issuance of this document is 
sometimes delayed. Japan hopes that the Tunisian Government carefully checks this process.  
4.139.   In conclusion, I would like to express  our strong wish to continue co operation between 
Tunisia and Japan.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.140.   The Russian Federation is happy to be able to participate in Tunisia's third Trade Policy 
Review and to welcome the delegation from the capital of that country to Geneva. We consider the 
WTO's trade policy review mechanism to be an essential tool for ensuring  the transparency of 
national trade regimes and we hope it will become the platform for a constructive dialogue 
between WTO Members and the Tunisian authorities and contribute to the further liberalization of 
trade with this dynamic African economy.  
4.141.   Russia  is following with interest the economic development of Tunisia under difficult 
conditions linked with both socio political changes in the country and external factors such as the 
lengthy recovery of the global economy. We note with satisfaction the clear results of the 
measures taken by the Republic's authorities, which have made it possible to ensure 
macroeconomic stability, a positive growth dynamic for GDP during the last four years, controlled 
inflation, a relatively low unemployment rate, and a fairly  low poverty level. Tunisia ranks as a 
middle income country according to the World Bank's classification and among the countries with a 
high level of human development according to the United Nations Development Programme.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  4.142.   In relation to Tunisia's trade r egime, Russia appreciates such trends as the considerable 
liberalization of the customs tariff over the last 10 years, certain legislative initiatives, and the 
general attitude of the authorities to trade facilitation and the anti smuggling campaign. Howev er, 
it is clear that additional efforts are needed to boost Tunisia's economic and commercial 
development and solve such problems as the complex reform of its commercial law, the 
restoration of the trade balance, the diversification of the export list, the  improvement of the 
investment climate, and the simplification and improved transparency of the trade regulations.  
4.143.   Russia and Tunisia are linked by a long, friendly and mutually beneficial history of business 
relations in various fields. This year marks th e 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic 
relations between our two countries. I would like to take advantage of the occasion to stress not 
only the ample potential for mutual trade and investment but also the growing interest in its full 
utilization. Bilateral trade volumes, which we estimate to have reached US$400 million in 2015, 
can and should be increased.  
4.144.   The Tunisian market is important for Russia in terms of exports of ferrous metals, cereals, 
petrochemicals, vegetable oils, salt and sul phur. From Tunisia we import clothing, footwear, nuts, 
fruit, vegetables, fish and seafood. Within the framework of the intergovernmental bilateral 
commission, the parties actively discuss the strengthening of cooperation in the areas of high 
technology in dustry (automobile and aeronautical) and reciprocal access to their high value added 
product markets.  
4.145.   Tunisia's importance for Russia as a tourist destination deserves special mention. 
Unfortunately, the unfavourable economic context and the security probl ems in Tunisia reduced 
the number of visits by Russian tourists to 50,000 in 2015, as compared with 250,000 in 2014. 
However, Russia considers this to be a temporary situation and we are convinced that Tunisia's 
seaside resorts will soon again become a pop ular destination for low cost quality holidays.  
4.146.   The Russian delegation has not addressed any written questions to Tunisia in the course of 
this review. If necessary, we stand ready to discuss any such matters at the bilateral level.  
EGYPT  
4.147.   At the outset, we  align ourselves with the statement delivered by the delegation of 
Morocco on behalf of the African Group.  
4.148.   We note that since its last Trade Policy Review, the Tunisian economy was affected by 
numerous challenges internally and internationally, from the in ternational financial crisis in 2008, 
followed by the debt crisis in 2010 in the euro zone, and high commodity prices, especially world 
oil prices in the period 2010 -2014, and the geopolitical risks associated with the conflict in Libya 
along with terroris t attacks and threats.  
4.149.   Nevertheless, Tunisia has continued to implement free -market economic policies defined 
by openness to the regional and international environment.  
4.150.   Despite these unprecedented economic, political and social challenges facing Tunisia si nce 
the end of 2010, the Government continued to implement a proactive trade policy that confirms its 
commitment to trade liberalization and increased integration into the global economy, with an 
objective to further open the economy by improving export ca pacity, increasing the 
competitiveness of exports, and gradually liberalizing trade and financial transactions.  
4.151.   In order to face these challenges, the Tunisian Government in September 2015 set out the 
framework for a five year plan "the Strategic Orientat ion Not e and Development Plan for 
2016-2020" that aims at improving the business climate and restoring an environment that is 
conducive to investment, that confirms the Government firm commitment to extensive reform and 
re-establish growth and boost employ ment.  
4.152.   The Strategic Orientation Note and Development Plan is also focusing on fundamental 
reforms to modernize administration and investment system, taxation and finance, in order to 
encourage the private sector to enter the local and international market in promising sectors with 
high value added.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  4.153.   We also acknowledge that Tun isia Strategic Orientation Note  set out a group of major 
reforms aimed at restoring and speeding up growth while maintaining domestic and external 
financial equilibria.  
4.154.   Moreover, it in cludes new legal framework for investment promotion with an objective to 
increase overall investment to 24% of GDP by 2020, and a new competition and prices law 
enacted in 2015 aiming at further embed the market economy and enhance competitiveness.  
4.155.   In addi tion to number of reforms in the financial sector mainly in the regulatory framework 
for banking governance, enhanced supervision and resilience of the banking sector, greater 
financial inclusion and microbusinesses ' access to finance, SMEs, innovative ven ture businesses 
and the deepening of the capital market.  
4.156.   Egypt commends Tunisia for its comprehensive ambitious five year plan "the Strategic 
Orientation Note and Development Plan ", and we wish them all success in achieving their ultimate 
goals out of it.  
4.157.   Tunisia always showed great commitment to strengthening the multilateral trading system, 
through its positive contribution and engagement in the Doha negotiations, and their active role in 
both African and Arab Group, we val ue Tunisia 's efforts and look  forward to further cooperating 
with them to advance the negotiation in the remaining DDA issues towards achieving satisfactory 
outcome.  
4.158.   Egypt and Tunisia have been sharing a historical steady trade relationship for decades, 
total trade remained almost on th e same level during the last three years, which reached around 
US$300 million. We are both members of the AGADIR Agreement and the Pan -Arab Free Trade 
Area.  
4.159.   Finally, Egypt strongly commends Tunisia for achieving an impressive economic 
performance in the pe riod reviewed considering the unprecedented challenges faced.  
KENYA  
4.160.   Kenya and Tunisia have cordial relations which have been in existence for the many years 
of diplomatic and economic relation.  
4.161.   We note that Tunisia 's economic growth has remained positive d ue to relatively diversified 
economy, positive trade performance and existence of well -educated labour force.  
4.162.   We also take note of the challenges the Republic of Tunisia has face due to socio -political 
crisis that hit the country in the year 2010 and the g lobal economic crisis. However, we 
congratulate Tunisia 's commitment and efforts in addressing these challenges including putting in 
place a new Constitution and undertaking reforms in the key sectors of the economy.  
4.163.   The Kenya welcomes Tunisia 's efforts to  reform and improve business environment. We 
commend the initiatives introduced which include adoption of a new law on competition and 
pricing, tax reforms and modernization of customs, reforming financial sector, modernization of 
government procurement an d state -owned enterprises and ICT sector.  
4.164.   We note that Tunisia is firmly committed to the multilateral trading system with a view to 
liberalize and facilitate its trade. In this connection, we encourage Tunisia to continue its reforms 
and its liberalizatio n efforts.  
4.165.   We also note that Tunisia is in the process of ratifying the WTO Trade Facilitation 
Agreement. These initiatives and efforts will, no doubt, improve the welfare of its citizens and lay 
the foundations for an open and competitive economy.  
4.166.   On the bilateral front, Tunisia and Kenya have maintained a friendly and cordial economic 
and trade relations over the years. The two countries have shared common positions in many 
international fora and, in 2001 , they signed an Agreement establishing a Joint Com mission for WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  Cooperation (JCC). However, the Joint Commission is yet to be launched. The two countries are 
also engaged in the negotiation to establish a bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA).  
4.167.   According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), i n 2015, Kenya exported 
goods and services worth US$800,000 to Tunisia and imported goods and services worth 
US$3.8  million yielding a trade balance of over US$3 million in favour of Tunisia.  
4.168.   Kenya 's exports to Tunisia include petroleum oils and bituminous minerals preparations, 
crude vegetables, electrical apparatus, mechanical equipment and machinery while imports include 
equipment for distributing electricity, feeding stuff for animals, wire products and coffee.  
4.169.   Finally, Kenya once again welcomes the effo rts by Tunisia in undertaking reforms geared 
towards enhancing overall economic growth and development and ensuring a more open regime, 
and will continue to work with Tunisia to strengthen and deepen our relationship.  
SENE GAL 
4.170.   As you know, the Trade Policy Review mechanism provides the only WTO forum within 
which all aspects of trade policy can be examined by all the Members. It makes possible an 
independent, objective, effective and credible evaluation of a Member's trade and economic 
situation.  
4.171.   I therefore  welcome the progress made by Tunisia with regard to the positive rates of 
economic growth it has achieved following the socio political crisis it experienced in 2010 and the 
outrages it has suffered, especially those of 2015.  
4.172.   My country notes with great s atisfaction the major efforts that Tunisia has made, on the 
one hand, in significantly reducing its applied customs duties, whose average rate has been cut by 
two thirds in 10 years (2006 2016), and, on the other, in simplifying its tariff structure. This bears 
witness to the special importance that Tunisia attaches to open trade.  
4.173.   Also noteworthy among this batch of positive initiatives is the reform of the Investment 
Incentives Code, intended, in particular, to attract foreign direct investment in activiti es oriented 
towards economic development and especially exports.  
4.174.   Accordingly, my delegation would encourage Tunisia to pursue the reforms necessary to 
restore the competitiveness of its enterprises and to strengthen the transport and communications 
sectors , essential for the facilitation of international trade and the attraction of foreign investment.  
4.175.   In conclusion, Senegal wishes Tunisia every success in implementing the major reforms set 
out in its report and invites the WTO, together with the other inter national organizations, to 
support our brother country in enhancing its economic performance.  
JORDAN  
4.176.   Jordan enjoys longstanding relationship with the Republic of Tunisia and enjoys excellent 
economic and trade relations and a smooth flow of trade and inves tments.  
4.177.   The Tunisian economy is based on openness and solid macroeconomic foundations and 
successfully maintained its resilience and stability with continued economic growth and flow of 
investments despite the developments in the last years and the regiona l instability. The period 
under review witnessed economic and regulatory reforms focusing on maintaining an investment 
friendly environment, and increasing the role of the private sector in driving the economy, 
including reducing its average tariff rates s ignificantly and adopting electronic transactions to 
streamline trade and investment procedures.  
4.178.   Jordan congratulates the Tunisian Government and the business society for such 
achievements and would like to wish the brotherly Republic of Tunisia more prosp erity and a 
fruitful and successful Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF TUNISIA  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS 
CHAIRPERSON  
5.1.  Before I start the meeting, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the people of France 
for the attack that took pla ce in Nice yesterday. I really feel sorry for all the families that have 
been attacked by this incident. Such monsters ' acts have to be condemned and my thoughts are 
with all those who are suffering from this.  
MR. MOHSEN  HASSEN  (HEAD  OF THE DELEGATION)  
5.2.  Before I begin, I would like to offer, on behalf of the Tunisian Government and my 
accompanying delegation, my sincere condolences to the Government and people of France, 
as well as to European Union delegation present here today. We are truly very moved foll owing 
these barbaric acts perpetrated in the city of Nice. All our thoughts go out to the families of the 
victims and to all the people of France. France, Tunisia's foremost partner, is a proud and strong 
nation. I have no doubt that its values of liberty,  equality and fraternity will triumph over any act 
of terrorism. We are all victims of terrorism. My country itself was affected by similar barbaric and 
dreadful acts in 2015. The Tunisian people and their Government stand firmly at France's side. 
Your pai n is our pain, your struggle is our struggle.  
5.3.  The Tunisian delegation wishes to thank all other delegations for their participation in and 
support for the work done in connection with Tunisia's third Trade Policy Review.  
5.4.  The suggestions and comments made i n the course of the review provide an exceptional 
opportunity for us to acquaint ourselves with Members' views on Tunisia's trade policies. Upon our 
return to Tunis, we shall continue studying all these aspects in the light of Members' proposals, in 
order to endow the Tunisian economy with an even more open and competitive environment.  
5.5.  The Tunisian delegation notes with satisfaction the favourable opinion expressed by the great 
majority of Members to have welcomed the success of Tunisia's political transiti on, the  economic 
reforms it has undertaken and the remarkable resilience of its economy. This  appreciation can only 
serve to encourage Tunisia to press ahead with the process of reform, openness and integration 
into the global economy.  
5.6.  I shall now briefly return to some of the main areas of concern mentioned by Members.  
5.7.  The issues raised include the question of the duality between the onshore regime and the 
off-shore regime where foreign exchange is concerned. In fact, the latter regime allows exporting 
companies established in Tunisia and with more than two -thirds of their capital held by 
non-residents to benefit not only from the customs and tax concessions granted to resident 
enterprises but also from the waiver of foreign trade formalities and the obliga tion to repatriate 
export earnings to Tunisia.  
5.8.  There can be no doubt that the system has functioned relatively well during the last 30  years, 
yielding improvements in export performance. However, this duality, which was intended to attract 
foreign direct i nvestment, has not fulfilled the aspirations of the Tunisian economy in terms of 
employment, regional development and inclusive growth, particularly as it is the source of the gap 
between exports in terms of goods and those in terms of financial flows.  
5.9.  Thus, in order to place all enterprises established in Tunisia on the same footing, the Tunisian 
authorities are planning progressively to reduce this dualism, by adopting the universal  principle of 
residence, albeit without encroaching on the rights of non -resident investors who enjoy the 
freedom to transfer their income and capital invested in Tunisia.  
5.10.   At the same time, the greater flexibility envisaged within the framework of the revision of 
the foreign exchange regulations is calculated substantially to in crease freedom of transfer in 
connection with the current transactions and certain capital account operations of 
resident  enterprises.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  5.11.   Where taxation is concerned, the measures taken to reconcile the off -shore and onshore 
regimes have mainly involved reduc ing the rate of the tax on onshore companies to 25% instead 
of 30% and imposing a 10% tax on the profits of offshore companies, which were previously 
totally exempt. By 2018, the tax rate for onshore companies will have been reduced to 20%. 
The suspensive regime relating to VAT will also be progressively eliminated.  
5.12.   In response to the questions concerning agricultural protection, it should be pointed out that 
Tunisia, which has implemented its commitments arising out of the Uruguay Round, is  continuing 
the trend towards lowering the customs duties on agricultural products, imports of which are 
increasing steadily. The import levels under tariff quotas are stable and predictable.  
5.13.   Likewise, my country is supporting the reduction of bound duties with a view to a global and 
balanced outcome of the Doha negotiations on agriculture which takes into account the general 
level of ambition in connection with the three pillars of the negotiations, namely, domestic  support, 
market access and export competition.  
5.14.   Members h ave also commented on Tunisia's trade policy. In this regard, I would like to point 
out that in addition to the action programme envisaged in the development plan for the period 
2016-2020, the Tunisian Government, with the support of the International Bank  for 
Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), has put in place a third €36.3  million export 
development project.  
5.15.   This project has three key components, namely:  
 support for the improvement of the business climate and the dissemination of technology 
and innova tion; 
 the provision of financial and non -financial services for export businesses; and  
 support for the services of the Ministry of Trade in carrying out export studies and 
development strategies, together with trade facilitation and the computerization 
of procedures.  
5.16.   In April  2016, the Government also organized a seminar on exports, in the course of which 
a programme of action to improve foreign trade conditions and organize various trade promotion 
activities was drawn up.  
5.17.   The action recommended included th e developing trade promotion policies, modernizing 
export financing mechanisms, facilitating foreign trade procedures, strengthening the contribution 
of e-commerce to export development, and modernizing the legal and institutional framework in 
accordance w ith best international practice.  
5.18.   A revision of the law on foreign trade, aimed in particular at trade facilitation and the 
reduction of non -tariff barriers, has also been undertaken. The reform of this law will be based on 
a reduction of the list of produc ts excluded from the freedom of foreign trade, the transfer of the 
technical control provisions of the legal framework for foreign trade to the texts governing 
consumer protection and product safety, and relaxation of the import and export requirements for  
economic operators.  
5.19.   Moreover, where the diversification of its trading partners is concerned, Tunisia is actively 
participating in the negotiations on the African Continental Free Trade Area and it has made 
approaches to African economic groupings regardi ng the conclusion of a free trade agreement and 
to COMESA regarding full accession. It is also in trade negotiations with Mauritius and Mauritania 
with a view to concluding similar agreements.  
5.20.   Tunisia will shortly be initiating negotiations with MERCOSUR f or the purpose of concluding a 
free trade agreement and has lodged a request for the negotiation of a trade agreement with the 
Euroasian Union. Discussions are also continuing with certain Asian countries with a view to the 
conclusion of free trade agreeme nts. WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  5.21.   The question of the investment regime and the new Tunisian Investment Code has also 
been raised. This text reflects the Government's intention to provide a transparent and 
incentivizing framework for promoting trade and investment.  
5.22.   Thus, the new Inves tment Code, currently in the process of adoption by the Assembly of the 
Representatives of the People, is aimed at increasing investment in the country's priority areas, in 
particular, the sectors with high value -added and a high technological content, 
regional development, and employment. It provides for easy market access, the establishment of 
a single interlocutor for investment, and the adoption of legal guarantees in favour of investors.  
5.23.    Tunisia is sparing no effort to ensure that the support programm es are designed and 
implemented in conformity with the provisions of the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing 
Measures and that the relevant WTO notifications are up -to-date. In fact, a new such notification 
has recently been submitted to the WTO.  
5.24.   Likewise, Tunisia has just adopted a new legal framework for public -private partnership 
(PPP), which is regarded as an appropriate means of encouraging investment in logistics, 
transport, renewable energy, infrastructure, and other areas.  
5.25.   The reform of the bu siness climate to improve Tunisia's ranking, which has fallen behind to 
some extent as a consequence of post -revolutionary events, is now affecting all the 
strategic  areas, such as the modernization of the financial sector, including the governance of the 
State -owned banks and the promotion and stimulation of the financial market and microfinance. 
The improvement of the business environment also involves reducing the corporate tax burden, 
streamlining government procurement procedures, and improving employa bility by providing 
further training for human resources.  
5.26.   Sectoral and regional development strategies will be based on positioning in the 
value  chains at global level and new high value -added activities, the promotion of research and 
development and of in novation, and the development of integral and sustainable supplementary 
economic sectors.  
5.27.   A denser industrial and technological infrastructure will be put in place to meet the needs of 
investors, in particular through a major industrial zone development pr ogramme and the 
promotion of technology clusters.  
5.28.   The Members of the WTO have also expressed interest in customs facilitation.  
5.29.   The progress made in recent years reflects the priority that Tunisia has given to this issue 
also. Indeed, Customs has had a cont rol policy based on risk management since 2004 in order to 
avoid any overlap between inspection procedures and reduce clearance times. In 2015, 
the average stay of goods in customs was 3.8 days and the average time taken to clear goods for 
home use was 2.3  days.  
5.30.   To further simplify customs procedures, the Government has adopted a plan for the 
modernization of the customs service along the following main lines:  
 Dissemination of paperless customs procedures and encouragement of the use of electronic 
payment.  
 Promotion of the approved economic operator system.  
 Strengthening of the risk management system by introducing pre -arrival processing and 
post facto control for goods traffic.  
5.31.   Where intellectual property is concerned, the changes in the legal framework sin ce the 
last review have involved the law on copyright and related rights, with a view to bringing it into 
conformity with WTO rules, and accession to international treaties such as the Beijing Treaty on 
Audiovisual Performances and the two Internet treatie s. Tunisia envisages examining the 
desirability of acceding to the other international treaties that provide for better protection for 
intellectual property rights.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  5.32.   These initiatives testify to Tunisia's desire to modernize and strengthen its intellectual 
property regime in order to stimulate innovation, job creation and economic growth.  
5.33.   Tunisia has been encouraged to participate in the WTO's plurilateral agreements and, 
precisely in this connection, I would like to point out that Tunisia has taken the init iative of 
commissioning an assessment of its possible accession to the Information Technology Agreement. 
The study, conducted by UNCTAD, has identified generally positive prospects and we are hoping to 
continue working towards accession to that Agreement.  
5.34.   As regards the Trade Facilitation Agreement, the draft law on its ratification has been 
submitted to the Assembly of the Representatives of the People for approval.  
5.35.   Several other questions have been raised and Tunisia has invariably provided the necessary 
explanations in writing. As recently as yesterday, the Tunisian delegation received additional 
questions from Mexico and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to which we have been happy to reply. 
We remain at the disposal of Members seeking further clarification.  
5.36.   By way of conclusion, I would like to thank you, Madam Chairperson, for your efficient 
conduct of this review. May I also again thank all Members for their questions and their support for 
Tunisia, as well as the Ambassador of Thailand for his very pertinen t views on the trade policies 
that Tunisia has pursued. My thanks also go to the WTO Secretariat team for its excellent work, 
which has enabled us to subject Tunisia's trade policies to a truly constructive review.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.37.   First of all, I would like to join Madam  Chair and H.E. Mohsen Hassen, Minister of Commerce 
of Tunisia, in expressing my condolences to all the victims of the attack in the south of France last 
night. I wish this violence is not going to happen again in any corner of the world. May pea ce be 
with us.  
5.38.   I listened carefully to all the interventions from the floor on the first day as well as today 's 
replies from His Excell ency the Minister of Commerce. Now that you give me the floor, I would like 
to make a brief concluding remark in a discus sant capacity.  
5.39.   During a review on day one, Members noted the difficult challenges the Tunisian 
Government faced during i ts socio -political transition. However, Tunisia was applauded by 
Members for its remarkable resilience and achievements, both economic a nd political, as well as 
Tunisia 's efforts in this Trade Policy Review.  
5.40.   It is clear that Tunisia 's constitutional reform is still in its early stage and that ongoing 
initiatives will need time to come to succe ss. But it is also apparent that big changes ar e being 
made, and a solid foundation is being established. Members appreciate the Five -Year Plan which 
includes man y potential reform programmes. They also commend Tunisia for the efforts made in 
the area of trade and investment, including the step -by-step lowering of tariffs since the last 
review, efforts to further facilitate trade, the preparation f or the new investment code, and  the 
adoption of new law on competition and pricing, just to name a few.  
5.41.   Nevertheless, Members urge Tunisia to give priority to  the modernization of its trade and 
investment regimes so as to enable the country to achieve expeditious recovery and sustainable 
development. These include further lowering of tariffs especially for agricultural products, further 
simplification of its ta riff system, improving the transparency and simplicity of investment 
measu res and related procedures, and  addressing the invo lvement and monopoly status of 
state-owned trading enterprises. Also mentioned is the strengthening of intellectual property 
protec tion policy, including the acceptance of the Protocol amending the TRIPs Agreement, and a 
number of outstanding notifications to the WTO.  
5.42.   Furthermore, Members believe that Tunisia would greatly benefit from an expedited effort to 
ratify the Trade Facilitat ion Agreement, and also participating in various plurilateral agreements 
such as an Agreement on the Government Procurement and the Information Technology 
Agreement.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  5.43.   In fact, Tunisia has given replies to many of the issues and q uestions asked from the floo r. 
But what is more important than verbal explanation are actions to be taken by the Tunisian 
Government from this point onwards.  And that remains to be seen whether such actions will yield 
the fruitful results as everyone in this room is hoping for.  
5.44.   To co nclude, in my view, Tunisia has made outstanding progress since the previous review 
despite the extremely difficult setting. For the long road ahead, as Members recommended, there 
are areas that Tunisia can make continual reform in order to speed up the ac hievement of policy 
objectives and economic recovery. In this respect , I wish Tunisia swift economic recovery and 
development, and every succes s in its future reform efforts.  
5.45.   Once again, I would like to thank the Chair for her efforts in another successful  TPR, I also 
thank the Secretariat for the comprehensive and insightful report that helps formed the basis of 
this review. Last but not least, I must express my sincere appreciation to the Minister of 
Commerce, His Excellency Mr. Mohsen Hassen and his dele gation , as well as Ambassador D oudech 
and his team in Geneva for their great efforts and contribution throughout th is Trade Policy Review 
process. Thank you.  
EUROPEAN  UNION   
5.46.   The European Union is grateful to the Tunisian delegation for all the efforts it h as made and 
for its replies, which we find very satisfactory. We have no follow -up questions and we trust that 
our questions and comments were constructive and useful to Tunisia in preparing its new trade 
strategy and drawing up its reforms.  
CÔTE  D'IVOIRE  
5.47.   The Côte d'Ivoire delegation would like to begin by offering its heartfelt condolences to the 
French people and the delegation of the European Union here in Geneva following the atrocity 
committed last night in Nice.  
5.48.   At bilateral level, it should be recall ed that the multidimensional relations between Côte 
d'Ivoire and Tunisia date back to 1965 and that the groundwork was done by the founding fathers 
of the two countries' independence, namely, Presidents Habib Bourguiba of Tunisia and Felix 
Houphouet Boigny  of Côte d'Ivoire.  
5.49.   Despite the longstanding nature of these relations between the two countries, underpinned 
by more than 15 agreements and conventions, and despite their leaders having cultivated the 
same identity of views concerning the importance of Sou th South and intra African cooperation, 
the level of trade between Côte d'Ivoire and Tunisia has remained abnormally low, amounting to 
about CFAF 25 billion or TDN 86 million, as compared with their respective potentials.  
5.50.   Thus, it was to boost this multise ctoral cooperation that the Tunisian Head of Government, 
His Excellency Mr Habib Essid, visited Abidjan from 25 to 27 April 2016, at the head of an 
important delegation composed of ministers and businessmen, at the invitation of his Ivorian 
counterpart, Pr ime Minister Kablan Duncan, within the context of the 8th Session of the Joint 
Ivorian Tunisian High Commission, on the fringes of which an economic forum was held.  
5.51.   At national level, the delegation of Côte d'Ivoire commends the performance of the Tunisian  
economy. Thus, despite the onset of the socio political crisis at the end of 2010 and the upheavals 
that followed, in particular the numerous outrages and the rise of terrorism, Tunisia has continued 
to record positive economic growth rates, as confirmed by the WTO Secretariat's report.  
5.52.   The delegation of Côte d'Ivoire welcomes the bold and proactive measures taken by the 
Tunisian Government with a view to instituting major reforms aimed at laying the foundations for 
good governance, completing the institut ional framework, and strengthening the administration of 
justice and the independence of the judicature. All measures which, coupled with the reform of the 
Investment Incentives Code and the new law of 2015 on competition and pricing, should help to 
increa se the attractiveness of Tunisia as a destination.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
- 34 - 
 
  5.53.   At multilateral level, the delegation of Côte d'Ivoire notes with satisfaction the Tunisian 
Government's numerous efforts not only to make the conditions of access to the Tunisian market 
more flexible but also and especially to facilitate trade in goods in general, on the one hand by 
significantly reducing its customs duties, whose average rate has fallen from nearly 45% in 2006 
to 14% in 2016, and on the other hand by taking a favourable position on the in sertion of the new 
Trade Facilitation Agreement, in process of being ratified, into Annex 1A of the WTO Agreement.  
5.54.   In conclusion, the delegation of Côte d'Ivoire notes the resilience of the Tunisian economy 
and wishes Tunisia every success with its Trade P olicy Review.  WT/TPR/M/341 • Tunisia  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This third Trade Policy Review of Tunisia has allowed us to better understand the exceptional 
context in which its trade and investment policies and practices have unfolded since its last Review 
in 2005.  We owe this to the informative documentation prepared for the meeting, the active 
participa tion of the Tunisian delegation  led by Mr. Mohsen Hassan, Minister of Trade, and the 
constructive comments of the discussant, Ambassador Kalayanamit from Thailand, and of 
Members who have taken the floor.  
6.2.  Many Members congratulated Tunisia for maintaining positive economic growth and 
macroeconomic stability throughout the decade. This performance has enabled trade to hold 
steady amidst a difficult political and secur ity environment. Members  welcomed the many strategic 
reforms initiated by Tunisia following the revolution in late 2010, and the adoption of a new 
Constitution in 2014. Although political and social reforms were understandably the country 's 
priorities, Mem bers encouraged Tunisia to also step up the liberalization of its trade and 
investment regimes, as part of its efforts to drive economic growth. They hoped that the reforms 
to streamline regulatory practices, notably in the areas of off -shore and on -shore taxation, as well 
as recent foreign exchange liberalization measures, for instance, could help address the 
longstanding dualism of the Tunisian economy.  
6.3.  Of the new trade policy initiatives, Members were mostly interested in the Investment Code 
to be introd uced this year, partly because some existing practices, such as the numerous tax 
incentives for exporting companies, had not been conducive to higher investment flows. The 
approval requirements for foreign purchases of Tunisian companies, and the 1961 law reserving 
commercial activities for Tunisian nationals, do not help attract foreign investment either. 
Separately, Members also looked forward to the implementation of a new Competition Law which 
might enhance private sector participation in trade, as hith erto competition h ad been limited by 
significant s tate intervention, with numerous public entities involved in trade in a wide range of 
sectors including agriculture, phosphate mining, energy, as well as banking, insurance and 
transport services.  
6.4.  Regarding  specific trade measures, Members commended Tunisia for having drastically 
reduced its average MFN tariff rate from 45% in 2006 to 14% this year, and encouraged it to 
narrow the gap between bound and applied tariff rates, with a view to improving predictab ility. 
They sought clarification about the 10% income tax instalment levied on imports. They also 
enquired about the numerous import duty and VAT exemption and suspension schemes, and about 
fiscal privileges used to manage imports, notably of motor vehicle s, noting that some of the 
incentives were conditional on the lack of domestic substitutes. At the same time, Members 
welcomed plans for the simplification of compulsory technical controls of imported products, but 
queried non -automatic import licensing pr ocedures, pre -importation surveillance measures, and 
the purpose of export prohibitions, licences and controls.  
6.5.  Intellectual property was another area that attracted Members ' attention. Members expressed 
interest in issues such as the possibility of suspen ding import clearance for infringing goods; the 
prospect of building a national registry of geographical indications; and the strategy of the new 
national council to combat counterfeiting and piracy. They also sought clarifications about 
indications of sou rce, compulsory licensing for medical products, and the responsibilities and 
activities of the Tunisian copyrights organization.  
6.6.  Members were pleased to note that Tunisia rem ained fully committed to the multilateral 
trading system. Several Members would like to see Tunisia meeting in full its WTO notification 
requirements and promptly ratifying the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Some also enquired 
about Tunisia 's plans to j oin the Government Procurement Agreement and the Information 
Technology Agreement.  
6.7.  As we conclude this meeting, Tunisia has already responded to all 140 advance written 
questions posed by Members, as well as all the additional questions that came after. Th is Review 
has shed l ight on a large number of areas  where reform could significantly boost Tunisia 's trade. I 
hope Tunisia will find Members ' comments useful in formulating its economic and trade policies, 
and will benefit from further assistance from WTO Members in this regard.  
6.8.  I invite colleagues to join me in congratulating Tunisia on the successful conclusion of this 
TPR. 
__________