Summary:

On 22 January 2025, the head of the National Chamber of Distributors of Domestic Gas Cylinders, Mohamed Munif, called on citizens “to be more patient until supply resumes normally” as public frustration has grown over shortages of gas cylinders.  

Munif stated that Tunisia received three ships loaded with liquefied natural gas (LNG) for domestic use in recent days, and additional shipments are expected. 

Munif’s statements come as many regions in Tunisia have been witnessing domestic gas cylinders shortages for weeks, particularly where gas distribution is primarily reliant on individual gas cylinders. 

State authorities have blamed these shortages on delays of shipments because of severe weather conditions blocking shipping lanes.  

Other sources, including the head of the state-run oil distributor Agil, Khaled Bettine, pointed to Tunisia’s limited LNG storage capacity as the cause of shortages.  

Cold weather across Tunisia increased demand for domestic gas cylinders for in-home heating, especially in the north-western interior regions and rural areas. 

Tensions have increased at distribution points as citizens have been seen fighting over gas cylinders. Police forces were mobilized to organize the distribution process and prevent violence.  

In one incident that was widely shared on social media, citizens forced gas distribution vehicles to stop in an effort to steal gas cylinders from them. Police forces were seen accompanying these vehicles to protect them from hijacking.  

Outlook: 

The domestic gas shortage is a more recent addition to a long list of products that have seen shortages, including sugar, coffee, milk, potatoes, and water.  

These shortages have prompted frustration among Tunisians and broader social tension as the government continues to struggle with the difficult balance of providing subsidized goods that citizens expect.  

Businesses are also suffering from shortages, particularly those that rely directly on government-managed imports for their stock. Previous shortages have led many to close manufacturing facilities temporarily leading to unemployment and deeper socio-economic challenges in various communities. 

A recent report from the Arab Institute of Business Leaders (IACE) placed shortages at the top of a list of the five most worrying risks for businesses in Tunisia.  

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