Tunisia’s foray into the aerospace industry is a testament to its commitment to innovation and excellence. This cutting-edge sector is notable not only for its advanced techniques and know-how but also for the way these innovations permeate other areas of the economy.
The aerospace industry demands substantial investments in production capacity and highly sophisticated technologies, underscoring the need for extensive research and development.
The sector also requires a highly skilled workforce, which, while scarce and costly, is indispensable given the complexity of its products. Moreover, the industry is characterized by low production volumes, limiting the benefits of economies of scale and often necessitating extended periods between development and market launch.
Tunisia has been a key player in the aerospace sector for many years, earning a reputation that attracts global investors. This status necessitates strong support from the government, which is committed to fostering a conducive environment for growth and development in the industry.
Strengthening public-private partnerships
In a bid to further develop the aeronautical components sector, Tunisia is pursuing a public-private partnership approach. A recent meeting between Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, and Director of Tunisie Mecachrome, Stefania Sonia Dalali, focused on creating 5,000 jobs over the next decade. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to attract investment, support manufacturers, and organize specialized training courses, according to a press release from the Ministry of Industry.
Tunisie Mecachrome, which employs 1,200 people, has been a significant presence in the Mghira industrial zone in Ben Arous governorate since 2010, with additional subsidiaries in Sousse and Monastir.
Impressive growth and future prospects
The Tunisian aerospace industry has made remarkable strides, driven by the experience and determination of its key players. Now that the industry has reached a level of maturity, the focus is on maintaining Tunisia’s strong position on the global aerospace stage by attracting new, influential players.
Tunisia is one of the most competitive economies in the southern Mediterranean, offering an ideal development platform for aeronautical activities. The country boasts a highly skilled workforce at competitive costs, and the aerospace sector has developed an efficient value chain in a competitive environment. Industrial activities are primarily concentrated on metalworking and the manufacture of mechanical parts, with additional focus on wiring, electric/electronic subassemblies, composite materials, surface treatment, painting, and technical plastic parts.
According to the Group of Tunisian Aeronautical and Space Industries (GITAS), investments in this sector are expected to double by 2030, with the aerospace industry currently accounting for 3.5% of Tunisia’s GDP. The sector comprises 85 industrial companies employing 17,000 people, with exports totaling 2 billion dinars in 2023.
The majority of these companies are located in 11 governorates, with 43% based in Greater Tunis, particularly in the Ben Arous governorate, which benefits from the presence of the El Mghira industrial zone. These companies operate under a unique model that optimizes costs and lead times, which are crucial in the aerospace sector.
