Tunis, Tunisia, 20 May 2026 – Tunisia’s local agri-food sector has recorded significant progress in competitiveness, job creation and export performance following the completion of the second phase of the Market Access Programme for Agri-food and Local Products (PAMPAT) project, led by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) with funding from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
Implemented between 2020 and 2026, PAMPAT’s second phase has supported more than 250 enterprises and 1,000 farmers across the regions of Kairouan, Nabeul and Testour, contributing to the development of 566 new products and over 3,600 jobs, 90 per cent of which are held by women. It also delivered a 194 per cent increase in export volumes across supported value chains, and mobilized nearly EUR 9 million in private investment.
| 250+ Enterprises Supported | 1,000+ Farmers Assisted | 566 New Products Launched |
| 3,600+ New Jobs Created (90% Women) | +194% Export Growth | €9M+ Private Investments Mobilized |
Key results of PAMPAT 2 (2020–2026)
The project’s closing event brought together representatives from government institutions, the private sector and value chain actors to review results and discuss future perspectives. Stakeholders highlighted the strong potential to replicate the PAMPAT model in other regions of Tunisia. There is clear momentum to scale the approach and extend its impact.
Building on the project’s first phase implemented from 2013 to 2019, PAMPAT has contributed to the development of selected value chains based on an array of emblematic Tunisian products, including prickly pear, date derivatives, dried tomatoes and pomegranates. The project focused on enhancing product quality, strengthening market access and improving the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Taking on an integrated approach, the project links agri-food products with tourism and crafts. Since 2022, 383 beneficiaries have engaged in tourism-related activities, with 52 operators offering experiences connected to local products. These initiatives have reached nearly 11,000 visitors. Collaboration with the National Tourism Office (ONTT) has supported the development of thematic routes showcasing local products and regional heritage, while the “Artiterroir” initiative has strengthened synergies between artisans and producers.
“We are no longer simply selling a product; we are offering a complete cultural experience that reflects the identity of our regions,” said Sana Mansour Ezzine, Deputy Regional Delegate for Crafts in Nabeul.
A key outcome of the project has been the contribution to the creation and implementation of a national strategy for the valorization of local products, produits du terroir. This strategy translates project experience into a broader policy framework that supports local development and improves value chains.
“PAMPAT has brought new industrial dynamism into our regions, transforming traditional value chains into genuine sectors of innovation,” said Hamida Belgaied, Director General of Agri-food Industries at the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mines.
“The implementation of the national valorization strategy has allowed us to define a new territorial development model centred on local products, which Tunisia aims to expand,” added Mahassen Gmati, PAMPAT focal point at the Ministry of Agriculture, Hydraulic Resources and Fisheries.
The programme has also promoted quality upgrading and market recognition through the Tunisian Contest for Local Products, now in its fifth edition.
In 2025, the contest attracted 539 products. Of those submitted, 165 medals were awarded across 119 enterprises. Participating businesses reported sales increases of 30 to 50 per cent, with 74 per cent of the competing enterprises led by women.
“The contest has created a strong dynamic around quality and excellence, generating new market opportunities for Tunisian local products,” stated Hanen Abidi Ben Ayed, Director of Partnership and Quality at the Agency for the Promotion of Agricultural Investments (APIA).
Gender equality has been a cross-cutting priority throughout the programme, reinforcing UNIDO’s broader commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment. Beyond the high share of jobs held by women, women entrepreneurs represent a majority among award-winning enterprises. In addition, 58 female-led start-ups were established with project support.
Over the last decade, PAMPAT has supported better livelihoods for farmers and entrepreneurs across Tunisia by helping turn local products into high-value opportunities. Its work has strengthened income generation, created jobs and expanded access to markets, with a clear focus on improving opportunities for women and rural communities.
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Industrial Development Officer - MSME Development and Job Creation Unit