AGP Executive Report

Eid al-Adha Watch: Tunisia is marking Eid al-Adha today, with authorities pushing hygiene and food-safety discipline as families grill and share fresh meat—veterinary services stress clean slaughter practices, no washing of fresh meat, and checking organs before eating. Market Monitoring: In Zaghouan, Governor Karim Bernagi inspected Eid markets and reviewed meat, fruit and vegetable prices, calling for tougher economic and health controls to curb monopoly and speculation and protect purchasing power. World Cup Build-Up: Tunisia’s World Cup context keeps sharpening as FIFA finalizes base camps across the U.S., Canada and Mexico, while Group F rivals Japan and Sweden talk up their chances despite late injuries and qualification scars. Trade Talks: Russia’s EAEU is expected to move toward starting negotiations on a free-trade deal with Tunisia, signaling fresh economic links beyond Europe. Business Signals: Tunisian listed companies continue mixed but steady reporting—profit resilience at Land’Or and governance debates at the Tunis Stock Exchange keep attention on how reforms translate into real change.

World Cup Logistics: FIFA has finalized base-camp training sites for all 48 teams, with Tunisia set to train at Rayados’ centre in Monterrey—and the tournament’s “home away from home” plan placing 39 teams in the U.S., seven in Mexico, and two in Canada. Diplomacy & Sanctions: France is pushing for tougher EU sanctions after violence against members of a Gaza-bound flotilla, arguing action must stay within EU and international law. Regional Security: Algeria urged international initiatives to back UN-led efforts on Libya, calling for dialogue that preserves unity and elected institutions. Tunisia Economy: Tunisia’s presidency says it has dismantled profiteering and hoarding networks blamed for Eid al-Adha price spikes, as markets still report elevated meat and food costs. Human Stories: In Tunisia’s Kerkennah Islands, fishermen say inspections and registration hurdles are pushing people toward irregular migration.

World Cup Logistics: FIFA has confirmed base camps for all 48 teams, with Argentina and England in Kansas City and Iran in Tijuana, Mexico after visa tensions pushed a move from the US. Tunisia in the Spotlight: Tunisia is among the Arab nations at the expanded tournament, and the draw places Arab teams across multiple groups—while Sweden’s Nygren is tipped as a “smart signing” ahead of their opener vs Tunisia. Domestic Security & Prices: President Kaïs Saïed ordered fresh operations in Greater Tunis, targeting drug trafficking and dismantling speculation and monopoly networks blamed for price hikes. Water & Governance: IRD launched an interactive “Atlas of Water Stakeholders in Tunisia” to connect researchers and local actors and reduce duplication as water stress worsens. Legal Pressure: Tunisian lawyer Sonia Dahmani received a new two-year jail term over prison-related remarks.

World Cup logistics, with a Tunisia link: Canada’s captain Alphonso Davies—hamstring-hit and missing March friendlies vs Iceland and Tunisia—has been named in the 32-man Charlotte training camp roster, with coach Jesse Marsch saying Davies will rejoin the squad on Sunday before Canada trims to the final 26. Tunisia under pressure: A Tunis court has sentenced prominent presidential critic Sonia Dahmani to two more years in jail over remarks about prison conditions, adding to a string of convictions tied to the 2022 “false information” decree. Cyber and dissent: Tunisie Telecom says its app was hijacked to push a political message to users, while officials claim services and user data were not compromised. Energy and summer supply: Algeria reaffirmed it will keep electricity exports to Tunisia through summer 2026 and urged faster Algeria–Tunisia–Libya interconnection work. Heat alert: Climate expert Adel Hentati warns Eid al-Adha could bring temperatures well above normal across Tunisia.

Tunisie Telecom Cyberattack: After a weekend hack, customers of the MyTT app received a political push message titled “A Cry for Tunisia: Freedom Is Not a Crime,” prompting screenshots and outrage; the operator later said the attack was detected and neutralized quickly, with no impact on data security or service continuity. Law 52 Narcotics Overhaul: A parliamentary hearing reviewed Bill No. 11/2025 amending the 1992 narcotics law, with addiction-medicine representatives warning of rising use among youth and the spread of harder-to-test substances. Sports—Tunisia Cup: Espérance de Tunis and Espérance de Zarzis booked the semi-final spots after wins over JS Omrane and CSS, setting up a “blood and gold” final next Sunday. Football—World Cup Prep: Tunisia’s national team camp in Tabarka adds new medical leadership and a performance analyst, with more players expected to join. Weather: Monday brings clear skies but sharp regional temperature swings, from cool early hours in the northwest to warm midday highs inland.

CAF Champions League: Mamelodi Sundowns are back on top of Africa, winning the second leg 1-0 at Rabat’s Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah to seal a 2-1 aggregate triumph over AS FAR and add a second star. Libya Detentions: The Global Sumud Land Caravan says eastern Libyan authorities are holding ten activists, including a Spanish woman, after they tried to negotiate passage near Sirte—and it also reports losing contact with part of the convoy. Tunisia Cybersecurity: Tunisie Telecom says the MyTT app was hit by a cyberattack on May 23, quickly contained, with no impact on data integrity or service continuity. Tunisian Cup: Espérance de Tunis and Espérance de Zarzis booked the semi-final showdown after wins over JS Omrane and CSS, setting up a “blood and gold” final at Radès next Sunday. National Team Setup: Tunisia’s federation updates Tabarka camp plans—new medical leadership, a performance analyst, and more players expected to join. World Cup Moves: The U.S. makes a limited exception on the “visa bond” for some World Cup fans, including eligible Cuban ticket-holders.

CAF & Morocco-Senegal Football Diplomacy: CAF President Patrice Motsepe praised King Mohammed VI’s royal pardon for Senegalese supporters convicted over offences tied to the 2025 AFCON final in Morocco, calling it a unifying gesture that shows football can calm tensions. Tunisie Telecom Cybersecurity: Tunisia’s telecom operator says a cyberattack on its MyTT app was detected early and neutralized quickly, with no impact on data integrity or customer service continuity. Tunisia Migration Push: Tunisia repatriated over 4,000 irregular migrants since July 2025, including a new voluntary flight carrying 243 Ivorian returnees. Libya-Tunisia Trade Talks: A joint customs committee meeting in Tunis wrapped up discussions to boost anti-smuggling coordination, security information exchange, and smoother truck and goods movement. World Cup Countdown: FIFA confirmed the 2026 tournament format and groupings, with Tunisia placed in Group F alongside Netherlands, Japan and Sweden. Sports Spotlight: In Kigali’s BAL playoffs, Al Ahly (Libya) and Dar City (Tanzania) posted statement wins, while Bahrain’s Winfred Yavi impressed at the Diamond League.

CAF Champions League Spotlight: Mamelodi Sundowns head into the second leg of the CAF Champions League final in Rabat defending a 1-0 lead over AS FAR, with coach Miguel Cardoso facing heavy pressure after past final heartbreaks and a huge prize pool at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Tunisia in the Mix: Tunisia’s football week also keeps rolling—Handball Cup action is set with Espérance de Tunis reaching the final, while World Cup squad announcements across the globe are nearing the June 1 deadline. Culture & Community: In Bradford, Delyssa is spotlighted for authentic Tunisian and Moroccan homemade food and hospitality, while a concert in the US features Tunisian Desert Blues. Humanitarian & Diplomacy: Kuwait’s ambassador to Tunisia praises Nama Charity’s relief work, and Egypt, Tunisia and Algeria renew calls for UN-backed elections to end Libya’s crisis. Health & Safety: A Tunisian dermatologist warns against Botox, fillers and laser procedures in unauthorized centers, citing serious risks.

Libya Diplomacy: Egypt’s El Sisi urged Egypt, Tunisia and Algeria to keep the trilateral mechanism on Libya moving, with foreign ministers again stressing that only a comprehensive political deal can end the crisis and pave the way for unified institutions and elections. CAF Football Pressure: Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso faces intense scrutiny ahead of the CAF Champions League final second leg in Rabat after taking a 1-0 lead over FAR. Basketball Finals: Ahly Benghazi begins its BAL6 finals campaign against Tunisia’s Club Africain in Kigali, aiming to grab an early advantage before the return. Tunisia Economy & Jobs: Tunisia’s unemployment rate is reported at 15% in Q1 2026, but the figures still hide sharper gaps—especially for women and youth. Eid Market Watch: Consumer groups warn intermediaries are driving up red meat prices ahead of Eid al-Adha, calling for tighter regulation and support for breeders. Travel & Trade: Belavia resumes charter flights to Enfidha after a five-year break, while Tunisia pushes for stronger African participation in global expos as economic diplomacy.

World Cup Roster Rush: With the 2026 FIFA World Cup starting June 11, squads are still being shaped by injuries and last-minute calls—Brazil’s Estêvão is out with a torn hamstring, while Germany’s Gnabry is sidelined by a torn adductor, leaving openings for others as teams finalize their 26-man lists. Tunisia Customs Upgrade: Tunisia has plugged AI into its customs risk system to flag suspected fraud faster, cut manual checks, and speed cargo clearance, with a next-gen “Sinda 2” platform planned for end-2026. Eid al-Adha Pressure on Prices: Tunisia’s consumer watchdog OTIC says intermediaries are driving red meat margins up by 300–400 dinars during the Eid sheep resale chain, urging tighter regulation and support for farmers. Local Governance Watch: Tunis municipality says it’s accelerating maintenance and development projects, including work around Kasbah Square and a new 9 Avril car park aimed at easing congestion. AFCON 2027 Build-Up: Uganda confirms friendlies against Tunisia, Libya and Botswana in the run-up to AFCON 2027, with matches set in Marrakech.

Parliament on narcotics overhaul: Tunisia’s General Legislation Committee meets Friday, May 22 at 10:00 a.m. to hear the Tunisian Association of Addiction Medicine on draft amendments to Law 52 (1992) on combating narcotics, with a focus on a more medical and support-based approach for people affected by addiction. Defense neutrality reaffirmed: The Ministry of National Defense says the army is a republican, neutral institution and warns against attempts to pull it into political disputes. Climate financing push: Tunisia says it needs $29bn (2026-2035) to adapt to climate impacts, led by water and agriculture. World Cup momentum: England is set to name its 2026 squad today, while FIFA rosters keep rolling in across the 48-team tournament. Business and trade: CIBA Hospitality launches Tunisian olive oil brand Terra Delyssa in Nigeria, aiming to expand Tunisia’s food exports. Local social support: Sfax hosts a trainee entrepreneur competition, selecting 20 projects to move forward.

Climate Adaptation Funding: Tunisia says it needs $29bn (2026-2035) to adapt to climate shocks, with water the biggest bill ($10.7bn) and agriculture/food next ($8bn), warning GDP could shrink if risks aren’t tackled fast. Education & Inclusion: Béja opened the first Second Chance School branch, targeting 12-18 year-olds who left school early, with 500 learners per year and a project cost near 2bn dinars. Security & State Role: The Defense Ministry reiterated the army’s neutrality and republican commitment, pushing back against attempts to pull it into political disputes. Regional Diplomacy: Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia urged Libya to hold presidential and parliamentary elections simultaneously under UN auspices. Public Support Measures: Medenine launched solidarity markets to protect purchasing power ahead of Eid, including preferential-price food and direct sales of sacrificial animals. Health Watch: Tunisia’s Health Ministry is monitoring Ebola in DR Congo, stressing no direct threat reported yet.

Ebola Watch: Tunisia’s Ministry of Health is closely monitoring a new Ebola virus disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, citing Africa CDC and WHO data, stressing vigilance and faster regional coordination while noting no direct threat to Tunisia so far. Fraud Crackdown: In the U.S., two former executives pleaded guilty for knowingly enabling India-based tech-support scams that targeted elderly victims, with sentencing set for June 16. Security Operations: Nigeria’s Air Force says it has intensified strikes on terrorist hideouts and logistics hubs in the north-east, disrupting planned attacks. Tunisia Spotlight: President Kaïs Saïed made an unannounced visit to Nabeul, ordering repairs to public facilities and pushing for fixes to unfinished projects. Sports & Culture: Tunisia’s Mehdi Saadi is set to face UAE fighter Mohammad Yahya in Dubai’s “Pride of Arabia” MMA event, while Tunisia’s film co-production “The Voice of Hind Rajab” continues to draw attention for its Gaza Red Crescent rescue story. Health for Seniors: A geriatrics segment highlights early screening from age 40—especially blood pressure and diabetes—to prevent later-life complications.

NGO Crackdown Eases: Tunisia lifted a ban on Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF) after a 30-day suspension, with the group saying it will resume activities from May 20—part of a wider pattern of rights groups facing temporary shutdowns, including the Tunisian League for Human Rights and Young Doctors. Humanitarian Tensions: The Global Sumud Flotilla says Israeli forces are still boarding its Gaza-bound fleet in international waters, while South Korea’s president urged Seoul to consider enforcing ICC arrest warrants for Netanyahu over the seizure of a vessel carrying South Korean activists. Health Diplomacy: Tunisia and Egypt discussed deeper cooperation in health, including “One Health” work, primary care, emergency systems, unified medicine procurement, and support for Palestinian health services. Cybersecurity Sweep: Interpol’s Operation Ramz reported 201 arrests across MENA, including Tunisia, after investigations into fraud-linked devices and phishing networks. Football Focus: CAF released the full 2027 AFCON qualifiers schedule, setting up major group clashes involving Tunisia and other heavyweights.

Gaza Aid Tensions: The Global Sumud Flotilla says Israeli forces are still boarding its humanitarian fleet as it heads toward Gaza, while a rival government in eastern Libya insists only Libyan and Egyptian nationals can pass through its land border—leaving foreign activists stuck near Sirte. U-17 AFCON Shock for Tunisia: Tunisia’s “Carthage Eagles” were knocked out after losing to Ethiopia 1-0, ending their run without a quarter-final spot or World Cup qualification. AFCON 2027 Qualifiers Draw: Tunisia landed in Group H with Uganda, Libya and Botswana, as CAF set the qualification calendar. Digital Push: Tunisia is getting fresh attention for IT nearshoring, with German firms increasingly looking at the country for talent and proximity. Cybersecurity Cooperation: Interpol’s Operation Ramz reported cross-region action across MENA, including Tunisia, targeting cybercrime networks. World Cup Culture: In Kansas City, a local teacher built a World Cup curriculum around global cultures, including Tunisia among the visiting teams.

World Cup in the spotlight: FIFA’s 2026 tournament is now just weeks away, with Tunisia set to face the Netherlands and Algeria in pool play at venues like Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium, where the Chiefs have reshaped the stadium for soccer’s dimensions. Ticket pressure: resale prices for U.S. matches have reportedly dropped 23% in a month, though “get-in” costs still average $558—so affordability is improving, but not suddenly cheap. AFCON 2027 draw fallout: CAF’s Cairo ceremony set the qualifiers’ groups: Tunisia is in Group H with Uganda, Libya and Botswana, while Nigeria landed Group L with Madagascar, Tanzania and Guinea-Bissau. Regional business momentum: Tunisia-based insurtech EYST won a six-figure investment from 216 Capital to speed claims settlement and expand internationally. Security & tech: Interpol says 201 people were arrested in a MENA cybercrime crackdown involving Tunisia and other countries.