Jaleleddine Henchiri, Vice President of the Tunisian Hotel Federation, said the industry’s immediate challenge is to develop a sustainable tourism model that generates visitor demand throughout the year rather than relying primarily on the summer season.
Speaking on Express FM, Henchiri said a structured strategy to strengthen the domestic tourism market is being implemented progressively, although it has not yet reached its full potential.
He identified domestic tourism as a key area for development, noting that weaker household purchasing power has affected demand. He called for year-round promotional campaigns and discounted offers to encourage local travel, with domestic tourism currently accounting for approximately 15% of Tunisia’s overall tourism activity.
Improving competitiveness
Henchiri also highlighted the importance of improving air transport services, restructuring hotel properties, and placing greater emphasis on cleanliness and environmental standards. He said achieving these objectives will require stronger coordination among all stakeholders across the tourism sector.
Looking ahead, Henchiri said Tunisia has the capacity to welcome up to 15 million international visitors within the next two to three years, provided comprehensive structural reforms are implemented across the industry.
He concluded by urging policymakers to recognise tourism as a strategic sector of the national economy, stressing that continued modernisation and reform will strengthen its contribution to economic growth while enhancing Tunisia’s international competitiveness.
Tags: Jaleleddine Henchiri, Tunisian Hotel Federation Tunisia tourism
