US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Mary Ann CASEY embassy: 144 Avenue de la Liberte, 1002 Tunis-Belvedere mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [216] (1) 782-566 FAX: [216] (1) 789-719
Flag: red with a white disk in the center bearing a red crescent nearly encircling a red five-pointed star; the crescent and star are traditional symbols of Islam
Economy ———-
Economic overview: Tunisia has a diverse economy, with important agricultural, mining, energy, tourism, and manufacturing sectors. Detailed governmental control of economic affairs has gradually lessened over the past decade, including increasing privatization of trade and commerce, simplification of the tax structure, and a cautious approach to debt. Real growth has averaged 4.2% in 1991-95, and inflation has been moderate. Growth in tourism and IMF support have been key elements in this solid record. Drought, especially in the south, held back GDP growth in 1995. Further privatization and further improvements in government administrative efficiency are among the challenges for the future.
GDP: purchasing power parity - $37.1 billion (1994 est.)
GDP real growth rate: 4.4% (1994 est.)
GDP per capita: $4,250 (1994 est.)
GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 15% industry: 30% services: 55% (1995 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.5% (1995 est.)
Labor force: 2.917 million (1993 est.)
by occupation: services 55%, industry 23%, agriculture 22% (1995
est.)
note: shortage of skilled labor