Tunisia is stepping up its ambitions in the global luxury yacht market, shifting from manufacturing components for foreign boatmakers to producing complete vessels for wealthy international buyers.

The North African country is banking on its skilled workforce, competitive production costs and strategic Mediterranean location to expand its presence in the industry, with manufacturers hoping to double exports by 2030.

At a boatyard in the northern port city of Bizerte, craftsmen are putting the finishing touches on luxury vessels destined for international markets.

Naval architect Tarek Rassas says his family business has evolved from producing handcrafted boats to manufacturing modern vessels and molds for export.

"The adventure started with my father, back in the day, with handcrafted models. My brother and I then joined, with new machinery, to be able to produce increasingly modern models," he said.

Rassas says the company now produces about 10 boats annually and plans to double its output. Its latest offerings include an 11-metre catamaran fitted with three cabins and twin 350-horsepower engines.

According to industry representatives, yacht exports reached approximately $560 million last year, supporting around 20,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Montassar Dhiaf, head of the Tunisian Marine Industries Association, says local manufacturers have moved beyond supplying components to producing complete vessels.

"Tunisian companies no longer just manufacture parts for foreign companies. They have also become capable of building a boat from design to full manufacturing, and even providing after-sales services," he said.

The sector has expanded from around 20 companies a decade ago to approximately 75 today, attracting foreign investment and expertise, particularly from Europe.

AXPRO General Manager Atef Ben Chedly says Tunisia's maritime heritage and geographical position give it a natural advantage.

"Adding to that, the qualification and highly skilled people here in Tunisia are able to lead this activity from conception to manufacturing," he said.

However, industry players say sustained growth will require stronger government support, including specialized training centers and tax incentives.

For Rassas, the satisfaction lies in seeing a finished vessel take to the water after months of work.

"It's like watching your child set sail," he said.

With production capacity expanding, Tunisia hopes to become a competitive player in the global luxury yacht industry.