From the 2nd to the 5th of May 2023, the Industry and Innovation Promotion Agency(APII) hosted an ICT brokerage event that brought together experts, stakeholders, and key players in Tunisia's dairy value chain. The event proved to be an essential platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities faced by the country's dairy industry.

Distinguished representatives from public institutions such as the National Institute of Agricultural Research of Tunisia (INRAT), the Livestock and Pasture Office (OEP), the School of Veterinarians of Sidi Thabet, the Agricultural Investment Promotion Agency (APIA), the Institute of Arid Regions (IRA) of Medenine, and the Interprofessional group for red meat and milk (GIVLAIT) were present. Their collective expertise and insights shed light on various aspects of the dairy sector, ranging from agricultural research and livestock management to market dynamics and interprofessional collaboration.

The private sector was also actively represented through the DAIRY CLUB Tunisia association, which brought together breeders, milk collection centers, and dairy industries. This inclusion of private actors ensured a comprehensive and well-rounded perspective during the discussions.

A significant highlight of the event was the exploration of how Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) could be leveraged to boost the performance of the Dairy Value Chain and the broader agricultural landscape in Tunisia. The discussions delved into the transformative potential of cutting-edge technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, and others.

During the debates, participants engaged in thoughtful exchanges regarding the implications of integrating these technologies into the dairy value chain. They addressed potential challenges, such as issues related to data privacy, security, and the digital divide in rural areas. At the same time, they recognized the immense opportunities presented by ICT to enhance efficiency, traceability, and overall productivity in the dairy sector.

Another crucial aspect of the discussions was the emphasis on intellectual property and the commercialization of research outcomes. The National Institute for Standards and Intellectual Property (INNORPI) provided valuable insights into how protecting intellectual property rights could foster innovation and stimulate investment in the dairy industry. Furthermore, the PPI4MED (ENICBC MED Program) project, managed by the National Agency for Research Promotion (ANPR), shed light on effective strategies for bridging the gap between research findings and market-ready applications.

An integral component of the event was the acknowledgment of the vital role played by international cooperation projects in advancing Tunisia's dairy and agricultural value chains. The presence of experts from EU programs demonstrated the benefits of cross-border collaborations in knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives.

The ICT brokerage event was a testament to Tunisia's commitment to enhancing its dairy industry and agricultural sector at large. By fostering dialogue, promoting innovation, and embracing international cooperation, the country is well-positioned to seize new opportunities and overcome challenges in its journey towards sustainable and inclusive growth in the dairy value chain.