The Tunisian economy is currently experiencing a period of rapid
change and expansion praised by the International Monetary Fund for
its "remarkable growth rates" and "growing diversification". It is
keenly trying to win overseas investors who should be attracted by its
open economy, political stability, a transparent legal framework and a
judicial system independent of political control. In the past decade
foreign investment rose from TD 6.3 billion in 1990 to TD 15 billion
in 1999 with around 2,000 foreign companies operating inside the
country and employing over 170,000 people.
Major Achievements
The country's economic progress since it began in 1986 has been
implemented in partnership with the IMF, the European Union and World
Bank. The outcome has been a success story with impressive results in
levels of GDP growth, controlling inflation and reducing the current
account deficit. Recent major achievements have included poverty
reduction; enhancing the status of women in the jobs market and social
life of the country generally; and the early introduction of new
advanced technologies such as the internet. An ambitious reform
programme aims to create a sound economy able to respond to an
increasingly competitive global market. Government objectives include
developing the competitiveness of its industrial, agricultural and
service sectors, as well as stimulating investment. A key target area
for attracting outside investors is the high-technology sector.
Measures such as privatisation and special development zones are being
implemented to make the country more attractive.
|
