Creative Tunisia – Empowering Artisanal Value Chains and Design
Creative Tunisia is a project aimed at strengthening the artisanal and design value chains in Tunisia. As part of the broader “Tounes Wijhetouna” program funded by the European Commission, its primary goal is to contribute to the sustainable and inclusive economic development of Tunisia by fostering synergies between tourism services, crafts, local products, and tangible cultural heritage.
Project Objectives
- Develop Competitive Value Chains: Support 8 artisanal value chains to enhance their competitiveness and structure.
- Market Access Strategies: Formulate and implement differentiated strategies to access both national and international markets.
- Establish Multi-Service Support Centers: Set up 4 to 6 Design Hubs in selected regions to promote design, culture, and creativity.
- Strengthen Institutional Capacities: Enhance the capabilities of local institutions dedicated to promoting crafts and design.
- Promote Artisanal Heritage: Highlight Tunisia’s artisanal heritage through targeted communication campaigns.
Funding and Implementation
The project is financed by the European Union, with additional contributions from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, and is implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). A total budget of €9 million has been allocated for the project’s execution from 2020 to 2025.
Why in The Green Circle
Creative Tunisia exemplifies the integration of sustainability, cultural preservation, and economic development, making it a fitting participant in The Green Circle 2025. By revitalizing artisanal crafts and promoting design innovation, the project aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as:
- Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8): Creating sustainable employment opportunities, especially for women and youth.
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9): Establishing hubs that serve as platforms for creativity and cultural exchange.
- Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11): Preserving and promoting cultural heritage through crafts.
- Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12): Encouraging sustainable production practices within the artisanal sector.
Through its comprehensive approach, Creative Tunisia demonstrates how cultural heritage can be a catalyst for sustainable development and economic resilience.
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Woody Zitoun is a trio of trays crafted with an organic and artistic design. Made from solid wood, the trays highlight the natural grain and warm tones of olive wood. Their irregular shapes, inspired by nature, resemble leaves or pebbles.The legs are fashioned from branches or roots, painted white, creating a design that feels both natural and lightweight while adding a sculptural touch. Brand: Creative Tunisia -
Dimensions: 50x50x30H cm Weight: 2,5 kg Material: palm fibers (Ärjoun), woven using traditional artisan techniques on a metal frame. Made in: Tunisia Lighting fixture made from palm fibers (Ärjoun), woven using traditional artisan techniques on a metal frame. Brand: Creative Tunisia -
Dimensions: 32x32x120 cm Weight: 30 kg Material: Concrete, Steel Made in: Tunisia "Let there be light, and there was light." A sleek, parallelepiped concrete block channels light through precisely drawn, regular cracks. As the light filters through, it spills into the space in the form of thin, horizontal rays—transforming into a tangible element that shapes the interior with dynamic, poetic elegance. Brand: Creative Tunisia -
Dimensions: 300x200 cm Weight: 16 kg Material: 100% wool Made in: Tunisia Handmade Berber Rugs in Wool Crafted using the traditional hand-knotting technique, these Berber rugs feature an elegant combination of off-white and black tones. Each piece is a testament to artisanal craftsmanship, bringing warmth and character to any space. Perfect for adding a touch of authenticity and timeless design to your home. Brand: Creative Tunisia -
Dimensions: 115cm * 90cm * 135cm Weight: 75 kg Material: Solid brass - Marble - Steel Made in: Tunisia Déesse Standing 1.35m tall, this solid brass sculpture is meticulously hand-shaped, with each curve reflecting the richness of our craftsmanship and Tunisian heritage. Déesse is our new floor-mounted hand wash faucet, brought to life through a week of dedicated artistry. A tribute to the timeless beauty of handmade craftsmanship! Brand: Creative Tunisia
