The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and the Arab Tunisian International Bank (BIAT) signed an agreement on February 6, 2026 in Tunis, for a transaction guarantee facility of $50 million, aimed at strengthening Tunisian foreign trade financing. This initiative aims to support local businesses, promote job creation, and improve access to essential goods for the population, particularly through strengthening supply chains and domestic production.
The guarantee will specifically facilitate the importation of industrial inputs, production machinery, and equipment in the telecommunications and renewable energy sectors, considered strategic for the country’s industrialization process. It will provide international banks with coverage of up to 100% for confirming trade finance instruments issued by BIAT, including letters of credit.
With a duration of three years, this facility will benefit both large enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises, including those led by women. Eligible operations will mainly focus on low-carbon footprint projects, in line with Tunisia’s climate commitments. Agro-industry and light manufacturing industries are among the priority sectors.
The operation will also help facilitate the importation of essential products to meet the needs of the local market.
“This facility will enable the African Development Bank to contribute to job creation and improve access for populations to essential goods and services,” said Malinne Blomberg, Deputy Director General for North Africa and Country Manager of AfDB in Tunisia.
On his part, Elyes Jebir, CEO of BIAT, emphasized that “thanks to this guarantee, BIAT strengthens its role as a strategic partner for Tunisian companies operating internationally, facilitating their access to global markets and securing their transactions. It positions itself as a solid bridge between Tunisian economic actors and the international financial system”.
