On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy hosted a high-level delegation from the Chinese company ASIA Potash International Investment (Guangzhou), led by Vice President Zheng Youye. The meeting was held in the presence of Minister Fatma Thabet Chiboub, her Chief of Staff Afef Chachi Tayari, and Director General of Mines Najeh Chrif.
This second official visit by the Chinese group to Tunisia reflects a growing interest in the country’s mining potential, particularly in phosphate, potassium, and bromine, as well as in the production of high-value agricultural fertilizers.
Strong Interest in Tunisian Phosphate
At the heart of the discussions was the development of the Sra Ouertane phosphate deposit, located in the governorate of Kasserine.
Still largely underexploited, this site represents a strategic reserve that could help relaunch national production and strengthen local value chains for phosphate- and potassium-based fertilizers.
ASIA Potash expressed its interest in establishing a structured industrial partnership, with the aim of creating transformation units in Tunisia and building a long-term collaboration with the Tunisian authorities in the field of mineral resources.
Ministerial Support to Foster an Enabling Environment
Minister Fatma Thabet Chiboub reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to facilitating investment in the mining sector through:
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streamlining administrative procedures,
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providing relevant geological data,
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and offering technical and legal support to foreign investors.
She emphasized that developing the mining sector is part of a broader national strategy to stimulate the economy, particularly in inland regions, and to create both direct and indirect jobs through labor-intensive projects.
Profile of the Chinese Group
ASIA Potash International Investment (Guangzhou) is a leading Chinese company in potassium extraction, with diversified operations that also include the processing of mineral resources and the production of complex fertilizers. The company is known for its ability to integrate technology, logistics, and industrial processing in regions with high mining potential.
Its interest in Tunisia aligns with its international expansion strategy, targeting promising and relatively untapped markets.
Analysis: A Promising Opportunity That Needs Careful Structuring
This renewed effort to attract foreign—particularly Chinese—investment in the mining sector raises several strategic considerations:
Welcome Diversification in a Vital but Struggling Sector
After years of declining production, social unrest, and underinvestment in phosphate, the arrival of an international player could inject capital, expertise, and access to new markets. It could also help reduce reliance on the Tunisian Chemical Group.
A Matter of Economic and Environmental Sovereignty
Any opening of the mining sector to foreign partners must be accompanied by strong contractual safeguards to maintain national control over strategic resources and enforce strict environmental and social standards, especially in sensitive regions like Kasserine.
A Test for Tunisia’s Economic Diplomacy
If this partnership materializes, it could serve as a model for results-oriented economic diplomacy in Tunisia—bringing together public actors, regional stakeholders, and private operators around a long-term, structured project.
China: A Strategic Partner That Requires Caution
Beijing continues to increase its investments in North Africa and natural resources. While this presents undeniable opportunities, it also requires vigilance regarding contract terms, environmental protection, and skills transfer.
Thus, the July 1 meeting marks a significant milestone in Tunisia’s attempt to reposition its mining sector strategically.
To ensure its success, intentions must be translated into action—with clear governance, balanced terms, and a coherent industrial vision.
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