Tunisia Tourism Revenue Up 58 per cent in 5 Months

Tourism revenue in Tunisia has experienced a remarkable surge, with a staggering 57.7% increase in the first five months of 2023. This surge in revenue is a significant boost for Tunisia's economy and tourism sector. To travel to Tunisia, you will need to obtain a Tunisian visa. The specific type of visa required may vary depending on factors such as your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay. 

Central Bank Data

Data provided by the Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT) reveals key statistics:

• Revenue Increase: Tunisia's tourism sector generated approximately 1.7 billion Tunisian Dinar ($549.8 million) in the first five months of 2023. This represents a substantial increase compared to the same period in 2022.
• Income Tax Growth: Concurrently, income tax revenue also saw growth, rising by 6% to reach 3.1 billion Tunisian Dinar ($1 billion) between January and May 2023.
• Debt Reduction: Remarkably, the nation managed to reduce its external debt burden by 10%, declining from 3.6 billion Tunisian Dinar ($1.16 billion) in the same period in 2022 to 3.2 Tunisian Dinar ($1.03 billion) in 2023.
• Foreign Exchange Reserves: Tunisia's net foreign exchange reserves decreased by 3.1 billion Tunisian Dinar ($1.9 billion) during this period, from 24.4 billion ($7.9 billion) in 2022.

Increased Tourist Arrivals

More than one million tourists visited Tunisia during the first five months of 2023, indicating a promising rebound in the country's tourism industry. This is a positive trend considering that in the entire year of 2022, Tunisia recorded 6.3 million visitor arrivals.

Key Source Markets

France, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, and Algeria were the top countries contributing the highest number of visitors to Tunisia during this period.

Economic Significance of Tourism

Tourism is a vital pillar of the Tunisian economy, representing 14% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP). Additionally, it provides employment for nearly 400,000 individuals in both direct and indirect roles.

Popular Tourist Attractions

Tunisia boasts a rich cultural heritage and a diverse range of attractions for tourists. Some of the renowned tourist sites include:

• Carthage: The ancient city of Carthage offers a glimpse into Tunisia's historical significance.
• El Djem Amphitheater: This well-preserved Roman amphitheater is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Bardo National Museum: Home to an extensive collection of Roman mosaics and artifacts.
• Sahara Desert: A unique and captivating natural wonder that draws adventure seekers.
• Ancient City of Dugga: A historic archaeological site that provides insight into Tunisia's past.

Positive Trends in 2023

The tourism ministry's latest statistical indicators indicate continued positive momentum in the Tunisian tourism sector, with a 66% increase in tourism revenues compared to the same period in 2022. This growth aligns with the Ministry's strategic plan to revitalize Tunisia's tourism sector after the challenges posed by COVID-19.

Exceptional Performance in 2022

In 2022, Tunisia's tourism sector experienced a remarkable turnaround, with an 83% increase in tourism revenues compared to 2021, totaling 4.2 billion dinars, and recovering 76% of 2019 revenues.

Optimistic Outlook

The Tunisian tourism sector is on a path to recovery, surpassing even pre-pandemic figures from 2019. Bookings for the summer of 2023 are already strong, with the destination aiming to welcome one million tourists, compared to 800,000 in 2022. This resurgence is an encouraging sign for Tunisia's economy and the resilience of its tourism industry.