Tunisia’s pharmaceutical sector is fast becoming one of the continent’s most competitive, with its market value expected to rise from USD 1.3 billion in 2020 to USD 3.4 billion by 2028. Known for having one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the Middle East and North Africa, Tunisia is building on its strong local infrastructure and growing global ambitions to expand its pharma footprint.
At the heart of this growth are joint ventures with international pharmaceutical firms, which are injecting capital and expertise into Tunisia’s local R&D ecosystem. These partnerships are helping local players develop and manufacture high-quality drug formulations while positioning Tunisia as a reliable production base for exports.
In recent years, Tunisian pharma companies have begun to expand exports to European and West African markets, banking on proximity, cost advantages, and growing demand in these regions. This has sparked increased investment in manufacturing capacity, as firms look to scale up production to meet rising international demand.
However, while the sector is clearly on an upward path, regulatory bottlenecks remain a major hurdle. Unclear pricing systems, long delays for product registration, and the absence of a dedicated pharmaceutical regulatory agency have slowed progress. Even basic governance processes, such as forming review committees, require approval from multiple ministries, adding time and complexity to market access.
Still, the strength of Tunisia’s pharma sector lies in its formulation diversity and growing specialisation. Tablets currently lead the market, accounting for 24.5% of all sales, due to their cost-effectiveness and use across a wide range of treatments, from diabetes and allergies to antacids and vitamins.
Capsules are also gaining traction, particularly in gastroenterology, where gastro-resistant formulations improve drug absorption and reduce side effects. As treatment methods evolve, the demand for capsules is projected to surge over the coming years.
Meanwhile, the injectables segment has emerged as a major revenue contributor, second only to tablets. Injectable drugs, which allow for rapid delivery and high efficacy, are in strong demand, especially for chronic diseases and emergency care. Companies like MédiS Laboratories are leading the way, known for their work in developing complex injectable drug formulations.
Looking ahead, Tunisia’s pharmaceutical industry is well-positioned to scale further—but unlocking its full potential will require regulatory reform, clearer export pathways, and stronger market governance. With the right frameworks, Tunisia could serve as a regional pharma powerhouse, bridging the supply gap in Africa and beyond.
