Tunisia

In 2024, Tunisia was not a globally significant producer of mineral commodities. Production of phosphate rock contributed to 4% of Tunisia’s gross domestic product and 15% of total exports value but was only 1.4% of global production. Exports were 124,000 metric tons (t), of which 100,000 t went to Turkey. To meet the needs of the domestic production of phosphate products, Tunisia began importing phosphate rock since 2019, primarily from Algeria. Production of aluminum fluoride, ammonium nitrate, cement, gypsum, iron ore, lime, phosphate fertilizers, sea salt, raw steel, steel products, and sulfuric acid represented only a minor part of the economy of Tunisia.  

The legislative framework for the mineral sector in Tunisia is provided by Law No. 2003–30 of 2003. The Office National des Mines [National Office of Mines] under the Ministry of Energy, Industry, and Mines oversees the mineral sector and conducts geologic research, prepares geologic and geophysical maps, and promotes mining by private companies. Most mineral commodities were produced by private companies; however, phosphate rock was produced by Government-owned Compagnie des Phosphates de Gafsa.