Regulatory Alerts2018-04-17
Law No. 2018-20 of April 17, 2018 on Startups
The Tunisian Assembly of Representatives of the People, promulgated by President Mohamed Béji Caïd Essebsi on April 17, 2018, enacted Law No. 2018-20 to establish an incentive framework for startups based on creativity, innovation, and new technologies. The legislation defines startup eligibility criteria—including an eight-year age limit, capital ownership thresholds, and innovation-driven business models—and mandates a centralized electronic portal for label administration and compliance monitoring. It grants startups significant financial benefits, including corporate tax exemptions, state-covered social security contributions, patent registration fee coverage, access to venture capital guarantees, and specialized leave and grant provisions for founders and employees.