The Tunisian automotive market continues to grow at a steady pace, driven by a diverse range of offerings and expanding demand.
Mehdi Mahjoub, spokesperson for the National Chamber of Popular Car Dealers and Manufacturers, stated on Achara3 Tounsi on Express FM, Thursday, September 25, 2025, that Tunisia now has more than 50 automobile brands operating in the country, a development that has strengthened the sector’s competitiveness and improved service quality for customers.
He also highlighted the rise of the parallel market, whose share increased from 29% in 2024 (14,000 units) to 32% in 2025 (19,423 units). This evolution reflects both growing demand and the regulatory challenges facing the Tunisian automotive market.
Regarding prices, Mahjoub specified that the average price of a popular car in Tunisia ranges between 29,000 and 35,000 Tunisian dinars.
Toward a new competitive dynamic
With more than 50 car brands competing and expanding distribution networks, the Tunisian market is heading into a new era of competition. Dealers are increasingly focusing on service quality and customer satisfaction amid rapidly rising demand and a growing parallel market.
It’s worth noting that the automotive sector in Tunisia showed robust performance in the first half of 2025, with a significant increase in sales across all segments.
According to figures from the National Chamber of Car Dealers and Manufacturers, 42,367 vehicles were sold between January and June, compared to 35,181 in the same period in 2024, an increase that reflects a renewed interest among Tunisians in car purchases, despite a still-uncertain economic context.
This growth is evident in both official networks and the parallel market. Authorized dealers recorded 30,089 sales, about 3,600 more vehicles than in the first half of the previous year, representing 13.6% growth.
But it is the unofficial sector that stands out with its surge: 12,278 vehicles were sold in six months, compared to 8,692 a year earlier — an impressive 41% increase.
A Safety net for many buyers
The parallel market, often seen as a safety net for many buyers, consists of vehicles imported under the special customs regime FCR (for Tunisians returning permanently to the country), as well as those sold in independent dealerships, whether new or used.
Asian brands continue to dominate the market. Japanese, Korean, and Chinese automakers hold the top positions, appealing to consumers with their reliability, competitive prices, and a wide range of models suited to local needs.
Among the segments driving market growth, popular cars are performing particularly well. 5,056 units were sold in the first half of 2025, compared to 3,191 the previous year, a surge that reflects households’ growing interest in more affordable models.
Seven brands are competing in this strategic segment, with Asian manufacturers once again holding a strong lead.
