TUNIS - Tunisia's textile-clothing exports to France posted a downward trend since the dismantling of the multi-fibre agreements in 2005, to the extent that France might lose its rank as Tunisia's first customer, for the benefit of Italy.
This drop is a source of concern for Tunisian textile professionals who have been used to French expertise in all areas (training, technical assistance and design, etc.).
The meeting, held on Wednesday in Tunis, by the Tunisian-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CTFCI) and the National Textile Federation (FENATEX) on "Revival of Tunisian-French Partnership in Textile-Clothing Sector" helped the two countries' experts explore ways to stimulate exchanges (exports and imports) of textile and clothing products and ensure a better positioning for Tunisian products in European distribution channels.
CTFCI Chairman Foued Lakhoua recommended, to this effect, developing Tunisian-French partnership by increasing French exports of fabric and accessories to Tunisia.
The overall value of these items totalled 2 billion dinars, 29% of which are provided by France.
Mr. Lucien Devaux, Chairman of the French Union of Textile Industries, pointed out that after having won the "just-in-time" (compliance with deadlines) wager, Tunisia is presently called upon to take up an important challenge, viz. that of creativity and moving up from the position of sub-contracting to a force of proposals for buying groups."
The country is "well equipped" to win this "bet of geographical and cultural proximity," he argued, pointing out that Tunisian textile professionals ought to defend and protect their creations with patents.
Mr. Daniel Harari, Director General of LECTRA company called upon Tunisian industrialists to re-invent their business model and make the most of the production tool.
Tunisia's textile-clothing sector has some 2,100 companies that employ over 200,000 people. Eighty-three percent of companies are totally exporting, 46% are in partnership or with 100% foreign capitals.
The branch attracts currently an average of 5 billion dinars of exports a year with an added value nearing 1.5 million dinars.
Tunisia, which is among the world's key clothing suppliers, is Europe's fourth supplier and France's second supplier of France.
© Agence Tunis Afrique Presse 2009
