Phosphate is an important asset for the economic recovery of Tunisia, in the sense that its contribution to GDP is significant.
Ridha Chiba, international export advisor, in an interview with the Tunisian daily La Presse , emphasizes the need to ensure the success of the Compagnie des phosphates de Gafsa (CPG). In other words, the resumption of activities must obey a certain number of criteria.
According to the expert, it is necessary to work in accordance with objectives previously set upstream. And this, through the use of all means, including the support of the State, human, financial, logistical and production resources. And this, through several stages: planning, organization and control.
In this regard, it should be noted that the Compagnie des phosphates de Gafsa achieved a production of around 3.8 million tonnes of commercial phosphate during the year 2021. That is 17% below the target set by the company. Because, due to repetitive strikes, there has been a suspension of extraction activities in the various production units.
It should also be noted that in 2010, the Tunisian production of phosphates was 8.1 million tons. We are a long way from that goal.
This has led to a slow production rate in recent years. However, to recover, the Compagnie des Phosphates de Gafsa must meet several challenges by investing in the full operation of its production units. And this, to reach a production exceeding five million tons in 2023. With the guarantee of maintaining a monthly rate of 400,000 tons on the various production units, Metlaoui, M’dhilla, Om Laârayes and Redeyef.
In summary, the State must play its role and be intransigent against anyone who tries to curb the activity of phosphate production.
