Tunisia’s economy rebounded in 2012, growing by 3.3%. A good agricultural season and the relative recovery in tourism, foreign direct investment (FDI) and hydrocarbon and phosphate production, which almost stagnated in 2011, contributed to the economic recovery. However, the European crisis and the decline in external demand had a negative impact on exports, particularly of textiles and machinery and electricity. Overall, production benefited from a more stable social climate in 2011 and continued domestic demand, but the economy as a whole is not improving as fast as was expected. Unemployment remains high, as do the current-account and budget deficits, because of the lack of structural reforms and the failure of the country’s main economic partner, Europe, to achieve a strong economic recovery. The greatest risks are ideological tensions, protests and possible pre-election populist policies, which could lead to overspending.