Zoubeir Chaïeb, Vice-President of the Arab Institute of Business Managers (IACE), emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue and debate, with the shared goal of reviving Tunisia’s economy.
Speaking on Express FM on Tuesday, he stated that this can only be achieved with the participation of all sector stakeholders, particularly businesses, which significantly contribute to the state budget, explaining the high tax pressure.
He also addressed the issue of the informal economy, noting that many solutions exist but have yet to be implemented.
Additionally, he highlighted the lag in Tunisia’s administrative digitalization; a factor he believes hinders its competitiveness in the global economy.
Chaïeb stressed the need to achieve tax justice to reduce fiscal pressure and redirect resources toward essential sectors like health and education.
He also discussed the liquidity challenges faced by businesses, which he suggested could explain delays in meeting tax obligations.
He added that it is crucial to ensure all necessary social conditions to provide workers with a dignified life while revitalizing investment dynamics.
Finally, he reiterated that the role of the IACE is to debate and propose recommendations to decision-makers, emphasizing the necessity of political will.
“It is well-known that the budget suffers from a deficit, but the solution does not lie in borrowing. Instead, it lies in improving growth, strengthening investment, and restoring trust between business leaders and decision-makers,” he said.
Moreover, Zoubeir Chaïeb noted that the ninth edition of the Sfax Tax Forum has seen distinguished participation from various experts, business leaders, and academics, ensuring a constructive dialogue with decision-makers.
The city of Sfax is hosting the ninth edition of the Tax Forum on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, organized by the IACE under the theme “Labor Taxation and the Pressure of Mandatory Levies.”
