Summary:

On 6 March 2024, Tunisian officials hosted senior leaders from the Chinese shipping firm Cosco at the port of Rades, marking a potential return of the global shipper after an extended absence from the Tunisian market. 

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Cosco Vice President Hu Hua participated in the visit, indicating that the company viewed the port of Rades as a potential strategic connection from China to European markets.  

Also on 6 March 2024, the Center for the Promotion of Exports announced that a new maritime shipping route would be opened between Tunisia, Morocco, Spain, and Libya. The new “Carthage Container Line” is a partnership between Dubai-based Arco Lines Shipping and Tunisia-based Africa Marine Company. The route will see a departure every 15 days with an expected transit time of four days. 

Outlook: 

An increase in commercial shipping traffic would benefit Tunisia, driving commerce through the port of Rades. However, challenges remain to implementation as the port continues to struggle with modernizing infrastructure and limiting exposure to bribery and corruption. 

The potential entry of a large foreign firm is an encouraging sign on the heels of the recent announcement by Mitsubishi that it will be closing its offices in Tunisia. However, the well-documented history of inefficiencies and corruption will have to be addressed in order for Tunisia to reap meaningful economic benefit. 

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