President of the Confederation of Tunisian Citizen Enterprises (CONECT), Aslan Ben Rejeb, stated that the main obstacle to investment in Tunisia is not only legislative texts but also on-the-ground procedures and administrative burdens, which he described as restrictive for investors.
Speaking to Expresso on Wednesday, January 21, he emphasized that the current priority is to establish a unified digital platform for investment, noting that improving the investment climate and simplifying processes can be achieved through digitalization, even before updating investment laws.
He also mentioned difficulties related to financing and access to funds, as well as problems with outdated tender documents, calling for their revision to allow access to all forms of investment, large or small.
Ben Rejeb pointed out that while the current economic situation is difficult, large companies have managed to achieve higher growth rates compared to SMEs due to diversified activities, easier access to financing, and international market positioning, making them more resilient in crises. In contrast, small and medium enterprises face challenges from the start, particularly in financing and export support.
Small and medium enterprises
He stressed the need to direct incentives and financial aid toward SMEs and microenterprises, which make up around 90% of the economic fabric and are crucial for job creation and value-added production.
He also stated that sovereignty has become digital, relying on artificial intelligence, data storage, and digital alliances, which could allow Tunisia to position itself internationally amid global transformations, while maintaining the EU as a main partner and exploring new collaborations.
Ben Rejeb highlighted that Tunisian youth represent an underappreciated global asset and called for providing them with resources and a strategic framework to enable them to contribute to economic development.
He concluded by stressing the need for investment based on national sovereignty and internal value-added transfer, through a clear strategic approach, effective policies, and accelerated digitalization of the investment process.
