Improving agricultural policies to enhance food security in Tunisia: a retrospective and prospective analysis

This paper explores the evolution and future perspectives of agricultural policies in Tunisia, focusing on their role in enhancing food security. The agricultural sector, while contributing around 9% to GDP and employing 16% of the active population, faces numerous challenges including water scarcity, climate change, and economic pressures from international trade. The study identifies that despite economic diversification, agriculture remains crucial for rural livelihoods and food security. Also, the paper critiques existing policies, particularly the inefficiencies in subsidies and the complexity of administrative procedures, which disadvantage small farmers. The analysis underscores the need for policy reforms aimed at improving farmers’ incomes, reducing policy costs, and enhancing efficiency. Recommendations include developing infrastructure, promoting modern agricultural technologies, and adjusting trade policies to better balance export promotion with import substitution. The study concludes that a dynamic and transparent agricultural policy, responsive to international changes and inclusive of all farmer categories, is essential for sustainable agricultural development and food security in Tunisia.