Business/ Afreximbank lends Tunisia $500 Million as foreign financing needs persist
Afreximbank has granted a $500 million loan to the Central Bank of Tunisia, aiming to support imp…
Afreximbank has granted a $500 million loan to the Central Bank of Tunisia, aiming to support implementation of the key socio-economic priorities of the country. The pan-African institution announced the deal on Monday, June 22, noting that the funds add to $1.2 billion already disbursed to the central bank.
Officials say the new resources will finance strategic imports, help meet commercial debt obligations, and improve access to foreign currency liquidity, ultimately strengthening economic stability.
« This facility reaffirms Afreximbank’s firm commitment to supporting Tunisia and sustainable socio-economic development across the continent, » said Afreximbank president George Elombi.
Central Bank Governor Fethi Zouhaier Nouri welcomed the continued partnership, calling it essential for preserving import capacity and boosting foreign currency availability.
The loan arrives as Tunisia shows signs of recovery alongside persistent imbalances.
According to the African Development Bank, growth reached 2.5% in 2025, up from 1.5% the previous year, driven by agriculture, phosphates, construction, and tourism.
Inflation eased to 5.3%, allowing monetary policy to loosen, while external imbalances improved somewhat despite a recent rebound in imports and ongoing debt pressures.
Still, weak investment continues to hold the economy back, hampered by financing constraints and an unattractive business climate.
Public debt remains high at around 82% of GDP, foreign reserves cover roughly 106 days of imports, and non-performing loans continue to strain the banking sector.
The deal also fits into Tunisia’s 2026-2030 Development Plan, finalized this month, which local media report aims to shift away from traditional planning approaches toward concrete project execution and measurable results.
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