Tunisia, a key partner for EIB that will accelerate funding in 2025
The European Investment Bank (EIB) continues its strong commitment to Tunisia, with €415 million in new financing signed in 2024, solidifying its role as a key partner in the country's economic and social development.
These strategic investments aim to modernize infrastructure, stimulate the economy, and enhance resilience against climate and energy challenges, while supporting job creation and social inclusion, the Bank stated.
Simultaneously, the EIB has increased its disbursements, rising from €163.7 million in 2023 to €196.6 million in 2024, reflecting a tangible acceleration in the deployment of funds on the ground and the immediate impact of supported projects.
In 2024, the EIB backed several strategic initiatives to strengthen Tunisia's economic and social development. Among these commitments, the modernization of the Sfax-Kasserine corridor represents an investment of €210 million.
This project, part of a broader €424 million program, aims to renovate 180 km of roadways to improve mobility, reduce transport costs, and enhance business connectivity to major economic hubs.
Its dual objective is to stimulate private sector development in less-connected regions and promote more balanced territorial growth.
Support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) is another priority for the EIB. Through the 'Tunisia Economic Recovery' program, the Bank mobilized €170 million to facilitate access to financing for MSMEs, which account for 90% of Tunisia's entrepreneurial landscape and employ 60% of the workforce.
This initiative, based on innovative risk-sharing tools, supports businesses that invest, innovate, and create new jobs. Additionally, an €8 million grant from the European Union bolsters this effort toward economic development.
Education and food resilience
Education and food resilience also received increased support in 2024. A €18.5 million financing package was allocated to modernize schools, building on a €40 million loan signed in 2023.
This program aims to improve learning conditions by developing new school infrastructure and accelerating the digital transition in education, offering better prospects for Tunisian students.
Meanwhile, a €17 million investment was dedicated to strengthening food resilience and supporting the agricultural sector, a key lever for securing the country's supply chain amid climate and economic challenges.
Finally, energy transition and sustainable development were central to the EIB's financing in 2024. The EU Bank continues to support energy efficiency, renewable energy, and green mobility projects, including the Italy-Tunisia electricity interconnection (ELMED), alongside Team Europe.
This strategic infrastructure will help secure the country's energy supply while fully harnessing its renewable energy potential.
Ioannis Tsakiris, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, stated: 'Tunisia is an important regional partner for the EIB and our support for its initiatives remains steadfast. This new financing demonstrates our commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, developing sustainable energy infrastructure and improving intra-regional connectivity. These investments will play a crucial role in creating jobs, boosting innovation and promoting balanced development, benefiting all Tunisians.'
Jean-Luc Revéreault, Head of the EIB Representation in Tunisia, emphasized: 'In 2024, we delivered on our commitment to Tunisia through financing that addresses the concrete needs of businesses, communities, and citizens. Our ongoing projects enhance mobility, facilitate access to credit, and support the energy transition. In 2025, we will continue to adapt our solutions by accelerating funding for sustainable infrastructure, strengthening our support for SMEs, and backing innovative initiatives in energy and urban planning.'
EIB Global: A tool for sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth
True to its mission, EIB Global, the EIB's specialized branch for financing outside the EU, will continue its work in collaboration with Tunisian and European partners to promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth.
In Tunisia, the EIB funds high-impact economic and social projects in strategic sectors such as education, urban development, transport, and energy.
EIB Global, the specialized branch of the EIB Group, seeks to enhance the impact of international partnerships and development financing.
It aims to foster stronger, more targeted collaboration with Team Europe, alongside other development finance institutions and civil society.
EIB Global brings the Group closer to people, businesses, and local institutions through its global network of offices.
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