Is Tunisia on track for a revival of its phosphate industry?

African Manager

06-03-2025

Boosting phosphate production was the focus of a meeting between President Kais Saïed and Industry, Mines and Energy Minister Fatma Thabet Chiboub.
According to a statement from the Carthage Palace, the Head of State emphasized the need to restore and even increase the production rate of the phosphate sector while ensuring the protection of workers' rights and taking into account their challenging conditions in the mines.
He also highlighted the importance of rebuilding several public infrastructures that previously existed but have disappeared over time.
Additionally, the President stressed the imperative of implementing a new strategy for washing phosphate using treated wastewater instead of potable water, which would help conserve water resources. This method has proven effective in several countries.
The President also called for a definitive solution to the issue of 'phosphogypsum' in Gabes, exploring the possibility of its exploitation without harmful effects on the environment.
In this regard, he recalled studies conducted over a decade ago by engineers and specialists in Gabes, which scientifically demonstrated the viability and safety of this solution.
Furthermore, the Head of State ordered the acceleration of efforts to find a permanent solution for the Mezzouna plant in Sidi Bouzid, which falls under the Tunisian Chemical Group in Gafsa.
He also called for holding fully accountable those responsible for its closure, which deprived dozens of people of their jobs.
Increase in phosphate production in 2024
The Gafsa Phosphate Company (CPG), a pillar of the Tunisian economy, has recorded a notable increase in its commercial phosphate production in 2024, reaching 3.03 million tons.
This figure marks an improvement compared to the previous year, when production stood at 2.9 million tons. With an average monthly production of around 250,000 tons, the CPG is showing signs of recovery after several years marked by economic and social challenges.
The increase in production in 2024 is seen as a first step toward a sustainable revival of the phosphate sector, which represents a significant portion of Tunisia's exports.
In recent years, the CPG has faced numerous obstacles, including social movements, operational interruptions, and issues related to aging equipment.
To overcome these challenges, the company has adopted a strategy focused on modernization and improving efficiency.
Key measures include the acquisition of new equipment and machinery, optimization of production processes, and strengthening human resources.
It is worth noting that phosphate production in Tunisia reached a record 8.1 million tons in 2010. However, since 2011, it has experienced significant fluctuations. The following years saw a marked decline, with production levels ranging between 2.4 million tons in 2011 and 4.4 million tons in 2017.
The most considerable drop occurred between 2010 and 2011, when production fell from 8.1 to 2.4 million tons, a decrease of nearly 70%.