The Tunisian government has announced a major reform of the banking system for 2026, focused in particular on the restructuring of mixed banks. This initiative comes in an economic context marked by an increase in non-performing loans and a slowdown in lending activity, impacting the country’s financial stability.

A Priority for Financial Stability

According to the 2026 draft economic budget, the government plans to strengthen the role of the banking sector in financing the economy while preserving the soundness of its financial foundations. This operation includes a restructuring program for mixed banks as well as the Small and Medium Enterprises Financing Bank (BFPME). Furthermore, the Tunisian Guarantee Company (SOTUGAR) will see its services expanded to better support SMEs and investment projects.

Strengthened Measures and Controls

To ensure the success of this reform, particular emphasis will be placed on the supervision of banking institutions. The 2026 strategy also includes a rigorous review of non-performing loans, with strict monitoring of banks’ strategic reform plans. This approach extends the initiatives launched in 2025 by the Central Bank of Tunisia, such as the implementation of circulars designed to limit banking risks and regulate dividend distribution to strengthen the equity of financial institutions.

An Expected Impact on Economic Financing

By aiming for better mobilization of necessary financing, the reform of mixed banks seeks to boost financing for small and medium-sized enterprises and thus strengthen the Tunisian economy. This structural review is also intended to improve the banking sector’s response to the needs of economic operators in a challenging economic environment, while promoting stability in the financial sector.