Speaking to Tunisie Numérique, Economist Ezzeddine Saidane stressed that the needs of the state are valued at about 15 billion dinars and that the state is only capable to provide 7 billion dinars, evaluating the difference at around 8 billion dinars. He pointed out that financing discussions with the IMF are fully suspended, contrary to what is being promoted, adding that there is no chance for Tunisia to borrow from any other party.
“Tunisia is confronted with two solutions. The first is to resort to friendly nations which have repeatedly expressed their wish to stand alongside Tunisia, to save 2.5 to 3 billion dinars. The second solution is to support this deficit from the Central Bank, either directly or through the Tunisian banks “he said. “
Nevertheless, the Central Bank has expressed its rejection of additional financing, because it has backed Tunisia with approximately 8 billion dinars since last December,” he continued.
In reference to prime minister Bouden visit to Saudi Arabia, he revealed that the efforts made by Tunisia aim to cover the state expenses for the remainder of the year 2021.
“Our horizon is extremely narrow, we are unable to finance the state for two months. Let’s not speak about the 2022 budget, nor how the state will finance its spending this year, nor about a budget bill for the year 2022 », He said .
The economist similarly estimated that Tunisia is going through a very difficult and unprecedented public finance crisis.