The Tunisian economy is entering a crucial phase of debate over the liberalization of financial transactions. A group of 40 members of parliament (MPs) in the Assembly of the Representatives of the People has adopted a new draft law for the “Exchange Code.” This proposal aims to initiate a legislative revolution that would end the 1976 Exchange Law, moving from a system based on restriction and prior authorization to a regime offering greater freedom and flexibility.
The proposal, which includes 96 chapters, focuses on integrating the digital economy and unleashing youth potential by allowing cryptocurrencies and international payment platforms, and facilitating corporate investment abroad.
Pillars of Radical Change: Digital Freedom and Investment
In exclusive statements about the proposal, MP Maher Ketari, one of the initiators, confirmed that the project is a “draft law” originating from the parliament, not a government bill. Its goal, he stated, is to break the restrictions that have shackled the Tunisian economy for decades.
1. Integrating the Digital Economy and Ending Criminalization
For the first time in Tunisian legislation, the proposal explicitly includes dealing with digital currencies, notably Bitcoin, and legalizes the use of international electronic payment platforms such as PayPal.
- Ending Legislative Ambiguity: This move is set to end the state of confusion and legal vacuum that previously prevailed regarding cryptocurrencies. The former legislation effectively criminalized Bitcoin transactions despite a lack of explicit prohibition, leading to security prosecutions against users—especially young people—despite the significant economic potential of the sector.
- Foreign Currency Accounts for Residents: The proposal allows Tunisian residents—particularly freelancers and young remote workers—to open “foreign currency accounts” (Compte en devises) in Tunisian banks. This measure is intended to legally introduce hard currency and reduce reliance on the parallel market.
2. Supporting Companies and Internationalization
The reforms are not limited to individual transactions but also aim to support Tunisian companies in going global. Key elements of the Code include:
- Granting broader facilities for companies to “invest abroad,” with the aim of “internationalizing” these businesses.
- Revising the concept of residency to link it primarily to economic activity, aligning with international legislation and modern investments.
- Simplifying procedures by consolidating multiple Central Bank decrees and circulars into a single Code. The project will also review provisions related to penalties and fines.
3. Comprehensive Review and Financial Amnesty
MP Ketari affirmed that the comprehensive review of the Exchange Code will increase investment freedom and curb the rise of currency trading outside official channels, especially since it aligns with positive economic indicators such as declining inflation.
He also noted that the proposed Code is accompanied by another initiative: “Amnesty for old exchange violations” (Amnistie de change), with the goal of “starting a new page for everyone” before the new Code is applied.
Ketari concluded by emphasizing that the new Code is “more important than the Finance Law,” as it genuinely opens the doors to investment and economic growth in the modern technology sector, which represents the largest global value added.
Sources and References:
- Exclusive Statements (Video): MP Maher Ketari on the Expresso program on Express FM. (Published: 21/10/2025).
- News Article: Maher Ketari: New Exchange Code opens the door for PayPal and Bitcoin. Express FM Radio website. (Published: 21/10/2025).
- Detailed Report: An opportunity to open broad horizons for investors. The proposal for the Exchange Code is to be filed next week at the Parliament registration office. Assabah News Newspaper. (Published: 18/10/2025).
- Background Reports (Cryptocurrency and Legislation): Previous coverage on the controversy and lack of clear legislation regarding cryptocurrencies in Tunisia. (Ultra Tunisia, Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, Le Maghreb newspaper).
- Report on the Legal Status of Cryptocurrencies in Tunisia (Background): Cryptocurrencies in Tunisia 2025: Statistics and Forecasts.” Bitcosat Magazine. (Published: 29/04/2025).
