The U.S. and Tunisia have finalized U.S. export certificates to allow imports of U.S. beef, poultry, and egg products into Tunisia, a country in North Africa bordering the Mediterranean Sea.
“President Trump continues to prioritize the opening of new markets for U.S. agricultural products, and we welcome Tunisia’s agreement to begin imports of U.S. beef, poultry, and egg products,” said U.S. Trade Ambassador Robert Lighthizer. “New access to the Tunisian market is an important step in ensuring that American farmers and ranchers can continue to expand their exports of U.S. agricultural products.”
“I'm convinced that when the Tunisians get a taste of U.S. beef, poultry, and eggs, they're going to want more,” said Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue. “While we continue to supply Tunisia’s domestic animal proteins sector with quality U.S. grains and oilseeds, I have no doubt that U.S. beef, poultry, and eggs will only help increase competitiveness and consumer choice within Tunisia.”
In 2018, U.S. exports of agricultural products to Tunisia exceeded $264 million. Over 90% of exports were corn, soybeans, or corn and soy products. Initial estimates are that Tunisia would import annually $5 million to $10 million of beef, poultry, and egg products from the United States, with additional growth over time.
Key Tunisian exports include textiles and apparel, food products, petroleum products and chemicals, according to the Central Intelligence Agency. The EU is its main economic partner. The country is seeking increased foreign investment.
More details on requirements for exporting to Tunisia are available from the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service Export Library.