Global digital transformation is reshaping industries, and the automotive sector is no exception, with the increasing integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in vehicles. Tunisia is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on these emerging technologies, particularly electric and smart vehicles.

Tunisia is positioning itself to become a major player in the smart vehicle industry, as highlighted during the second steering committee meeting of the "Automotive Smart City" project on Tuesday, March 4. The initiative aims to establish a smart city dedicated to the electric and intelligent vehicle sector, enhancing Tunisia’s role as a strategic hub and boosting its global competitiveness.

The smart vehicle market is expanding rapidly, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, connectivity, and autonomous driving technologies. A report by consulting firm Modor Intelligence estimates that the automotive artificial intelligence market, valued at $2.3 billion in 2024, will grow to $16.2 billion by 2026, fueled by strong consumer demand and government efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

Tunisia’s Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, said the project aligns with the country’s national strategy for industry and innovation. It also supports the Pact for the Competitiveness of the Automotive Equipment and Components Manufacturing Sector by 2027. The initiative is expected to increase export revenues to 13.5 billion dinars ($4.4 billion) by 2027 and create 150,000 new jobs in the coming years.

The project is part of broader efforts to strengthen Tunisia’s automotive sector, which has already demonstrated significant growth. Tunisia ranks second in Africa for automotive component exports, underscoring the sector’s potential and its growing contribution to the national economy.

By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji