Importing from Tunisia: the complete 2025 guide

Why import from Tunisia in 2025?

Tunisia remains one of the EU's most strategic trade partners. Thanks to the EU-Tunisia association agreement (in force since 1998), most Tunisian industrial products enter Europe duty-free. Combined with a skilled workforce, geographic proximity (2h30 by plane from Paris, 24h by truck via the Genoa ferry) and competitive costs, Tunisia is once again a credible alternative to Asian sourcing.

1. Choosing the right Incoterm

Incoterms 2020 define who pays for what between you and your supplier. The most common on the Tunisia-Europe route:

• EXW (Ex Works) — you handle everything from the Tunisian factory. Risky for beginners.
• FOB (Free On Board) — the supplier delivers to the Tunisian port (Radès, La Goulette, Sfax). You take over.
• CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) — the supplier delivers to the European port. Most recommended for a first import.
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) — the supplier delivers to your door, customs cleared. Maximum convenience, higher price.

2. Import VAT

Since 2022, import VAT is reverse-charged in France and most EU countries. You no longer pay it at customs: it is declared and deducted simultaneously on your monthly VAT return. Cash flow preserved.

3. Essential customs documents

• Commercial invoice (in French or English)
• EUR.1 — preferential origin certificate; this is what avoids customs duties
• Detailed packing list
• Bill of Lading (or AWB for air freight)
• Sanitary certificate (food, cosmetics)

4. Classic pitfalls

• Forgetting the EUR.1: you pay full customs duties (up to 12% on some products).
• Underestimating lead times: count 5-10 days by sea, 24-48h by air, plus customs clearance (2-5 days).
• Wrong HS code: causes delays and fines.
• No supplier verification: use a KYC service (like TuniTrade) to validate legal existence, trade registry and financial strength.

5. Costs to anticipate

For a 20' container Tunis-Marseille in 2025:

• Sea freight: €800-1,400
• Port and handling fees: €350-500
• Customs clearance: €150-250 (broker)
• Inland transport: variable

Conclusion

Importing from Tunisia in 2025 remains fiscally advantageous and logistically simple when the framework is respected. The key: choose a verified supplier, secure the EUR.1, and work with an experienced freight forwarder on the Maghreb-Europe route.

Need a verified Tunisian supplier? Explore our certified company directory or post your request — we identify your partners within 72h.