The evaluation of travel agencies’ performance in 2024 and the analysis of major challenges facing the sector were central to the discussions at the Tunisian Federation of Travel and Tourism Agencies (FTAV) General Assembly, held this Sunday, April 27, 2025, in Hammamet.
During the event, FTAV President Ahmed Bettaieb emphasized in a media statement the importance of this meeting for professionals. He described it as a crucial platform for exchange to identify ways to boost travel agencies, overcome obstacles, and resolve persistent issues.
Bettaieb further stressed the need to implement efficient digital systems within government administrations that partner with agencies. This digital transformation aims to improve efficiency, foster collaboration, and establish a shared roadmap between the administration and professionals to sustainably revive tourism.
2024: A Landmark Year for Tunisian Tourism
The year 2024 was described as a landmark year for tourism in Tunisia. According to Bettaieb, performance exceeded 2019 levels, with growth exceeding 7%. This progress affected several indicators: turnover, number of overnight stays, tourist influx (+8 to +9%), and a renewed interest in traditional markets, Eastern European markets, as well as the continued dynamism of the Algerian market.
On another note, he highlighted several priority challenges that need addressing. In this context, Bettaieb indicated that the FTAV is working on the digitalization of procedures, updating specifications, the rapid adoption of a regulatory framework for alternative and sustainable tourism, the reform of legislation governing the travel agent profession, and more.
“The sector continues to face numerous structural constraints, particularly its relations with the Central Bank, regulations surrounding the Umrah pilgrimage, means of transport, environmental management, and digital interactions with public services,” he further clarified.
Regarding the evolution of the legal framework for payments, particularly the reform of checks, Bettaieb explained that this has significantly disrupted activity, leading to a 20 to 30% decrease in transaction volume for agencies. Faced with this situation, the FTAV is calling for concrete alternatives, such as deferred and installment payment solutions.
Attracting 11 Million Tourists
For his part, the Director General of the Tunisian National Tourist Office (ONTT), Mehdi Haloui, stated that the administration’s presence at this assembly reflects a desire to strengthen cooperation with professionals. He reiterated the shared commitment to achieving the target of 11 million tourists during the 2025 season.
Haloui also specified that the administration is actively working on revising legislative texts, promoting the Tunisian destination, and encouraging investment. Updated specifications are being developed, particularly those governing alternative tourist accommodation, the publication of which is imminent.
Regarding tourist transport issues, joint committees are working on concrete solutions to facilitate investment and improve the organization of trips, especially pilgrimages. Particular emphasis is placed on improving the quality of services offered to customers.
Concerning Saharan tourism, he indicated that the opening of the Tozeur-Paris air route has generated new momentum. It has encouraged several investors to revive their projects, including two tourist establishments currently undergoing renovation and ready to reopen soon.
