EBI strengthens business ties with Tunisia
The Ekurhuleni Business Initiative (EBI) has strengthened ties with the private sector in Tunisia to boost business trade.
Recently, a delegation from the MTM Group based in Tunisia visited Ekurhuleni to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the EBI.
Ali Goutali, who was the Tunisian ambassador in South Africa years ago. was part of the delegation. Goutali has since then been an ambassador stationed in Russia.
At the time when he was still stationed in SA, back in the early 2000s, Goutali, along with Chris van Biljon of the EBI, launched Tunsa (Tunisia South African Business Initiative).
According to Goutali, Tunsa, however, ran shipwrecked when he left SA’s shores for a new designation. Now, years later, he believes Tunsa can be reborn, and the time is now ripe for a healthy business partnership between South Africa and Tunisia.
“We believe Tunisia and South Africa are both important hubs for investment, tourism and trade. For this reason both of these countries should work closely together and share expertise and resources,” said Goutali to the Advertiser.
Tunisia is the northernmost country in Africa, covering 165 000 square kilometers. Its northernmost point, Cape Angela, is the northernmost point on the African continent.
Since Tunisia lies so close to the European continent, is has a European feel to it. For this reason, the European Union remains Tunisia’s first trading partner.
“We receive a lot of tourists from Europe, and lately, following my time in Russia, a lot of Russian tourists flood our country.”
He said Tunisia is looking to attract wealthier tourists, but to make this a reality they are going to have to invest in upper-class golf courses, resorts and casinos.
“This is, of course, where South Africa plays a part, because South Africa knows about resorts, casinos and golf courses. After all, just like Tunisia, South Africa also relies heavily on tourism.
“If the two countries take hands then the northern and southern tips of Africa will be connected, opening up tourism and trade routes that will be beneficial for Tunisia and South Africa.
“I believe when the private sector of both countries, with the support of the respective countries, pool their resources we can come up with new approaches to boost trade and business, and at the same time with a working synergy we can see the fruition of key developments that will benefit both countries,”
Goutali said Tunisia has a diverse economy, ranging from agriculture, mining, manufacturing and petroleum products to tourism. Among its best products are tuna and olive oil.
He also pointed out that when he was stationed in South Africa there was a technical corporation between the two countries, such as doctors from Tunisia working in SA.
Van Biljon is excited about the partnership, as it will open up new opportunities for businesses in Boksburg and also throughout Ekurhuleni to expand operations to Africa and even Europe.
