Libyan and Tunisian authorities have started implementing key provisions of their bilateral free trade agreement, marking a significant step towards strengthening commercial ties and facilitating the movement of goods across the shared border.
According to Tunisia’s Mosaique FM, the measures follow recommendations agreed upon by the joint customs committee during its recent meetings and are designed to streamline customs procedures and enhance trade flows between the two neighbouring countries.
The agreement includes the activation of preferential certificates of origin and related post-clearance verification mechanisms. Authorities have also moved forward with the adoption of electronic certificates of origin and the reactivation of a joint customs crossing facility aimed at accelerating border procedures and reducing administrative delays.
The latest developments build on understandings reached in April 2025, when both countries agreed to establish direct communication mechanisms between their customs administrations. Dedicated contact points were also appointed to facilitate the exchange of information on smuggling, commercial fraud and customs-related offences.
Officials said the agreement further seeks to strengthen customs and security cooperation through the sharing of expertise, technical knowledge and operational information. It also includes the activation of a twinning agreement covering customs training and professional development programmes to enhance institutional capabilities on both sides of the border.
The two countries additionally reviewed several technical issues related to transit trade and freight transport. They agreed to adopt a “handover-receipt” document for export operations and to exchange data concerning the actual value of traded goods in an effort to improve transparency and reduce discrepancies in customs declarations.
The discussions also addressed the revision of the list of foreign goods excluded from land transit and the removal of restrictions imposed on certain product categories.
Libyan officials, including Minister of Economy and Trade Dr. Suhail Boushiha, have repeatedly stressed the importance of expanding economic cooperation with regional partners to support economic growth, facilitate investment and strengthen cross-border trade. The latest measures are expected to contribute to deeper economic integration between Libya and Tunisia while improving trade efficiency and border management.
