Economy

Coral, an underwater jewel coveted for centuries, weaves a fascinating story in Tabarka. But behind the glittering facade of this marine wealth hide disturbing shadows. From intrepid divers to artisan jewelers to illegal traffickers, each actor contributes to a maritime drama where economic issues collide with ecological realities.

The splendid coast of Tabarka, in northern Tunisia, has long been the scene of a complex history between humanity and one of its most precious underwater treasures: coral. Once seen as an economic boon for the region, Tabarka coral has witnessed a dramatic transformation over the years. Unfortunately, the incessant quest for this “red gold” has led to devastating consequences, ranging from the proliferation of contraband to environmental dangers threatening the coral ecosystem. A survey recently published by RFI.fr highlights the growing challenges facing this iconic industry in the region.

Treasure and tragedy

In 2019, Tunisian authorities dismantled an international trafficking network, ending an operation holding 600 kilos of coral worth 2 million euros. Despite the export value of coral, reaching up to 5,000 euros per kilo, the local sector has lost its prestige. Coral fishers are struggling to pay increasing logistical costs, while the scarcity of divers, due to the dangers inherent in the profession, contributes to the proliferation of smuggling, leading to a fall in market prices. Coral, often referred to as “red gold” due to its market value, is also responsible for the tragic loss of many divers.

Slim Medimegh, a professional diver for 26 years, testifies to the deadly impact of this activity. The scarcity of professional divers in this regard favors poaching, using destructive methods, such as the dragging of large chains by powerfully motorized boats, thus threatening the coral ecosystem in the Mediterranean.

Mourad Ben Khelifa, a coral shipowner for a decade, also expresses the growing difficulties in the legal sector. Increasingly strict customs and police controls hamper legal activities, creating a climate of suspicion and fear among industry players.

In the same vein, the Tunisian documentary “The Red” highlights the environmental consequences of coral trafficking in the Mediterranean, highlighting the growing dangers weighing on this fragile ecosystem.

Another worrying aspect is the imminent threat to local artisan jewelers. The coral coast stretching 180 km from Bizerte to Tabarka no longer brings in much for artisans. Once prosperous, these artisan jewelers, accustomed to working with unusable debris, are now faced with the rarity and high cost of coral.

Mokhtar Saoudi, a 75-year-old jeweler, testifies to the transformation of this industry over the decades. Once thriving, the coral industry in Tabarka is facing increasing difficulties. The scarcity of coral forces artisans to dive to extreme depths, resulting in prohibitive costs. Mokhtar observes with concern the potential disappearance of this centuries-old craft, with younger generations showing little interest in resuming the trade.

Protecting coral heritage

Today, the coral industry in Tabarka finds itself at a critical point, facing a series of challenges threatening its sustainability. Growing smuggling is emerging as one of the main scourges, fueled by growing international demand and flaws in control systems. This smuggling not only threatens the ecological balance of the seabed, but it also compromises the quality and reputation of local products. Urgent measures are needed, including strengthening targeted customs controls to limit the proliferation of contraband. It is also important to strengthen international collaboration to curb this illegal trade, in addition to imposing dissuasive sanctions.

At the same time, environmental dangers are putting considerable pressure on Tabarka’s coral reefs. Climate change, marine pollution and the destruction of coral habitats are putting marine biodiversity at risk and directly affecting the livelihoods of local fishermen. It is therefore imperative to establish marine protected areas, promote sustainable fishing practices and raise awareness of environmental issues in the local community in order to guarantee the sustainability of this precious natural resource.

Furthermore, the threat to local crafts accentuates economic and cultural risks. The gradual disappearance of traditional skills and jobs linked to the coral industry might have devastating impacts on local communities. Supportive initiatives are essential, including training programs to preserve artisanal skills, the promotion of responsible tourism focused on local crafts and the diversification of income sources to ensure the resilience of communities in the face of economic changes.