Russia-Led Trade Bloc Pursues Free Trade Agreement with Tunisia Amid Global Influence Battle
The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which includes Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan, is intensifying its efforts to expand its global trade influence by pursuing a free trade agreement with Tunisia. This move is part of a broader strategy to increase the bloc's presence in Africa, a continent that is becoming a focal point for global economic competition. The EAEU has already established free trade agreements with several countries, including Vietnam, Singapore, and Iran, and is now looking to strengthen ties with African nations. The proposed negotiations with Tunisia are expected to receive support at the upcoming Supreme Eurasian Council meeting. Trade between Russia and Tunisia has already reached approximately $3.2 billion in 2025, with significant exports from Russia including wheat and barley, while Tunisia exports olive oil and seafood to Russia. Additionally, tourism between the two countries is on the rise, with a notable increase in Russian tourists visiting Tunisia. 
