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The leaders of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries are expected to approve the start of negotiation over the creation of a Free Trade Area (FTA) with Tunisia at a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Council later this week.
“In regard to the international agenda, decisions are expected on starting talks with Tunisia about signing a free trade agreement.” Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov said on Tuesday (May 26).
Tunisia is located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara Desert. It serves as a gateway to both Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa. Tunisia’s economy is wide-ranging, with key industries including agriculture, which is a major source of exports, such as olive oil, grains, dates, citrus fruits, and vegetables. The country is also a large producer of phosphates, which are crucial for global fertilizer production. Other minerals like lead, zinc, and marble are mined as well. The textile and apparel industry is another significant sector, exporting clothing to Europe.
Tourism also plays an important role in Tunisia’s economy, thanks to its cultural heritage and Mediterranean coast. The manufacturing sector includes electronics, automotive components, and food processing. Tunisia is also focused on expanding its energy production, including oil, natural gas, and renewable energy, and its services sector, such as banking, telecommunications, and IT, continues to grow.
Trade between Tunisia and Russia has increased in recent years and reached about US$3.2 billion in 2025. Russia is now a key supplier of wheat, barley, and sunflower oil to Tunisia and has also started exporting powdered milk, meats, and fish. Tunisia, in turn, exports dates, olive oil, and seafood to Russia. According to the Russian Union of Travel Industry (RST), Tunisia is considered a growing destination for Russian tourists, with last year’s demand for summer holidays in Tunisia tripling compared to 2024.
The EAEU already has free trade agreements with Vietnam, Singapore, Serbia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Mongolia, and Indonesia and has held talks with India, while discussions about a free trade agreement with Egypt are also underway. Upcoming discussions over the EAEU FTA include consultations between the commission and representatives from Jordan, Zimbabwe, Pakistan, and South Africa, while the potential for agreements with Nigeria and Ethiopia is also on the agenda.
