The value of Tunisian handicrafts exports reached 385 million dinars from January to June 2012, according to figures provided by the National Crafts Board (ONA).
According to ONA, indirect exports carve the lion’s share, since they account for 328 million Tunisian dinars (MTD), and the remaining 57 MTD are the work of direct exports.
The Board also states that the handicrafts sector contributes 2.2% to Tunisian exports and accounts for 4% of GDP.
As for the annual investment value of the handicrafts sector, it is estimated at just over 18 MTD. Also note that the sector has employs 350,000 craftsmen for nearly 76 activities.
Craft companies number 1,200, including 523 exporting companies, in addition to 72 licensed shops. The craft sector also has 38 Amine (corporate leaders) and the annual number of trainees in the sector amounted to 15,000 persons. The craft takes up 7,000 jobs per year.
A note finally that the ONA organizes annually a series of trade fairs and other events inside and outside the country.
