Tunisian lawmakers question 2027 growth target
A proposed finance bill aims for 3.1% growth but faces skepticism over insufficient measures for investment and industry.
Tunisia's proposed finance bill for 2027, focused on wealth creation and investment, is facing scrutiny in the Assembly of People's Representatives (ARP). Lawmaker Issam Chouchane has voiced concerns that the proposed economic measures may not be enough to achieve the targeted 3.1% growth rate. He suggested that a supplementary finance law might be necessary if the initial proposals fall short.
Maher Ktari, president of the ARP's Finance and Budget Commission, stated that the 2027 bill prioritizes investment and economic development, differentiating it from the more socially focused 2026 law. However, Chouchane pointed out that certain provisions might not adequately protect Tunisian industry and called for revisions. Ktari emphasized the need to boost exports and investment to strengthen foreign currency reserves and support economic recovery.
Chouchane also highlighted the difficulty of assessing the finance bill without a detailed explanatory document, which could lead to varied interpretations. He believes the measures for startups and small businesses are insufficient for the 3.1% growth objective. The possibility of a supplementary finance law depends on factors like oil and grain prices, inflation, and exchange rates, with the government yet to make a decision.
Why it mattersTunisian citizens and businesses are affected by the proposed finance bill's potential to not meet its economic growth targets, impacting investment and industry protection.