Tunisian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are set to benefit from a new €170 million credit line launched by the European Investment Bank (EIB), with support from the European Union. The initiative, formally known as “Tunisie – Relance Économique,” aims to bolster investment and economic recovery across the North African nation, with a particular focus on inclusive growth.
The credit line is part of a broader “Team Europe” initiative, aligning with national priorities set by the Tunisian Ministry of Economy and Planning and the Central Bank of Tunisia. It will be administered by the Central Bank of Tunisia through local financial institutions, making the funds accessible to eligible SMEs.
Facilitating Access to Finance and Promoting Inclusion
A key objective of the “Tunisie – Relance Économique” credit line is to ease financing constraints for Tunisian SMEs. At least 30% of the funds will be earmarked for projects demonstrating social inclusion criteria, including job creation, regional development, and support for women and young entrepreneurs. This emphasis reflects a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are widely shared.
Complementing the credit line is a “Rawafed+” investment premium, designed to amplify the impact of EIB-financed projects. This premium provides a non-reimbursable grant equivalent to 10% of the financing amount, capped at €50,000 per SME, for projects meeting the EIB’s social inclusion standards. The Rawafed+ project is funded by the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD).
A Multi-Faceted Approach to SME Support
The Rawafed+ project, totaling €8.9 million in funding, extends beyond direct financial assistance. It encompasses technical assistance to financial institutions to improve their capacity to offer SME-friendly financing options. It also includes an expertise hub for SMEs and a support program for very small enterprises (TPEs), delivered through partner organizations. A core component focuses on strengthening the financial management and sustainability practices of Tunisian SMEs.
The EIB’s commitment to Tunisia extends beyond this latest initiative. The bank finances projects with significant economic and social impact in strategic sectors such as education, urban development, transport, and energy. EIB Monde, the specialized arm of the EIB Group, is focused on increasing the impact of international partnerships and development financing.
National Outreach to Inform SMEs
To ensure widespread awareness of these new financing opportunities, a series of regional information sessions have been conducted across Tunisia, including in Sfax, Sousse, Gafsa, Kairouan, and Béja. These sessions, organized in collaboration with local Chambers of Commerce and Industry, aim to reach SMEs throughout the country. The most recent session was held in Tunis, continuing this national outreach effort.
Broader Context: EIB’s Increased Investment in Tunisia
The launch of this credit line and the Rawafed+ premium comes as the EIB accelerates its financing activities in Tunisia. In 2024, the bank committed €415 million in new financing to the country, solidifying its position as a key partner in Tunisia’s economic and social development. This represents an increase from the €163.7 million disbursed in 2023, reaching €196.6 million in 2024.
These strategic investments are designed to modernize infrastructure, stimulate economic activity, and enhance resilience to climate and energy challenges. A significant portion of the 2024 funding, €210 million, was allocated to the modernization of the Sfax-Kasserine corridor.
The EIB’s increased engagement in Tunisia is also reflected in its support for the Trade and Competitiveness Programme (TCP), a project funded by the EU in partnership with the EIB and other institutions. The TCP aims to improve the competitiveness of Tunisian SMEs, particularly in key export sectors such as agriculture, agri-food, textiles, and automotive. The program combines technical support, facilitated access to financing, and guidance on transitioning to a greener economy.
According to Marco Stella, Head of the EU’s Economic Development Section, the TCP demonstrates the EU’s commitment to supporting the Tunisian economy. Jean-Luc Revéreault, Head of the EIB’s Representation in Tunisia, highlighted the availability of financing instruments, including the €170 million credit line with the Central Bank of Tunisia, and plans for a future line to encourage banks to support higher-risk, high-potential SMEs.
These initiatives are part of a broader regional effort to foster post-crisis recovery and build resilience in the face of geopolitical, climate, and economic headwinds. The EIB’s continued investment in Tunisia underscores its confidence in the country’s economic potential and its commitment to supporting sustainable and inclusive growth.
