Tunisia: the new big player in nearshore software development?

When you think of Tunisia, the first things that come to mind are sunny holidays and glorious beaches. And it certainly is a great place for holidays and much more. However it’s also quickly emerging as a premier destination for software development outsourcing. 

Here are reasons why I set up our development studio in Tunisia and why you consider it for your next nearshore development partner.

1. Tunisia’s great IT infrastructure

Tunisia has been putting in huge investments to create an environment that boosts technological growth. There are 10 Technoparks and 18 Cyberparks across the country that focus on ICT services, including software development. This promotes the development of a business-oriented environment. Smart Tunisia reports that the tech sector accounts for 7.5% of the country’s GPD and that the ICT services export accounts for about 10% of all services exported.

2. A highly qualified workforce

Tunisia has more than 65,000 graduates every year, with 35% of graduates specialising in computer science and other tech fields. Another big plus point is the fact the Tunisians are polyglots, with most professionals speaking 3 or 4 languages! Alongside the official Arabic language, English and French are both widely and fluently spoken among its people.

3. It’s closer than you think! 

Geographically, Tunisia is a close neighbour to European countries. A flight from London to Tunis Carthage takes less than 3 hours. This makes it easier to communicate in person if needed. It is a great country for on-site product and software team collaboration.

4. Cultural alignment

Tunisia also has a cultural advantage over other international partners. The country has a large history with Europe and it has absorbed the traditions of European nations. It even shares similar work ethics and communication style with European countries, especially the UK. This cultural compatibility makes collaboration a breeze and reduces the usual problems that come with other big offshore tech hubs. A study held by Accenture states that about 70% of outsourcing partnerships that fail, do so because of the lack of cultural compatibility.

5. We work the same hours

Tunisia is a nearshore partner. It shares the same timezone as the UK for half the year, and only 1 hour apart for the other 6 months. This allows real-time communication and boosts the efficiency of project management. Working with nearshore partners gives you better control over the communication process.

6. Investments laws

Tunisia has dedicated many laws to boost foreign investments. A law passed in 2017 gives investors access to land ownership for investment, freedom to transfer funds, and many other advantages. In effect, Tunisia has made it easier for businesses to operate, including tax advantages and simplified legal procedures, which saves costs that are passed onto clients, like you.

7. Cost advantage

Cost efficiency is the goal that every company in software development is looking for. In Tunisia, you can get highly motivated, talented developers whilst not breaking the bank, allowing you to do more with less. Working with Tunisian teams gives you the quality you need while still being more cost-effective than working with European partners.

8. Data protection

Tunisia established a strong legal framework to protect data security and intellectual property rights. It passed many laws that secure sensitive information and reduce potential threats to data privacy. The National Authority for Personal Data Protection (INPDP) is responsible for safeguarding sensitive information.

A nearshore development dream

These reasons, and many more, make Tunisia an appealing destination for companies who seek the best outsourcing partners, and why I chose to set up my business there. 

If you are interested in finding out more about the benefits of running a Tunisian team, or you are actively looking to build your nearshore development team, you can drop me a line here.