Incoterms 2025 Tunisia-Europe: which one to choose?

What is an Incoterm?

Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are rules published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). They define who pays for what and who bears which risk in an international transport contract. The version in force is Incoterms 2020 (still valid in 2025).

The 4 Incoterms to know for Tunisia

1. EXW — Ex Works

The seller simply makes the goods available at their Tunisian warehouse. You handle everything else: loading, inland transport, Tunisian export customs, sea freight, EU import customs, final delivery.

Pros: lowest purchase price, total control Cons: maximum complexity, significant risks For whom: experienced importers with a reliable freight forwarder

2. FOB — Free On Board

The Tunisian seller delivers the goods on board the ship at the Tunisian port (Radès, La Goulette, Sfax) and handles export clearance. You take over once the goods are on the vessel.

Pros: controlled price, EU forwarder of your choice Cons: you handle insurance and freight For whom: regular importers with a dedicated forwarder

3. CIF — Cost, Insurance, Freight

The Tunisian seller pays sea freight to the designated EU port (Marseille, Genoa, Antwerp) and minimum insurance. Risk transfers at the departure port, but you receive the goods at arrival.

Pros: simplicity, all-in price up to EU port Cons: often minimum insurance (clause C, 110% of value) For whom: recommended for a first import

4. DDP — Delivered Duty Paid

The seller delivers to your door, EU customs included. Maximum convenience — like a domestic purchase.

Pros: zero complexity, easy comparison with local suppliers Cons: higher price, seller needs an EU EORI number For whom: occasional buyers or those wanting zero logistical friction

Quick comparison

(Indicative for a 20' container Tunis-Marseille)

Concrete cases

• First textile import: CIF Marseille — you discover the market without complexity
• Regular monthly flow: FOB Radès — you optimize via your forwarder
• Small urgent quantity (air): DDP — simplicity first
• Bulk material purchase: EXW if you have an agent on-site

Common mistakes

• Confusing CFR and CIF: CFR does not include insurance
• Buying EXW without a forwarder: guaranteed disaster
• Not specifying the port: "CIF" alone means nothing, you need "CIF Marseille"
• Forgetting EU port charges: THC, handling — not included in CIF

Insurance: do not skimp

Minimum insurance (clause C) covers major losses only. For valuable goods, take clause A (all risks) — count 0.3 to 0.8% of the CIF value.

Need a reliable freight forwarder on the Tunisia-Europe route? TuniTrade references verified logistics partners. Request a recommendation.