Assessing sectoral linkages and sustainability dynamics in Tunisia – insights from a social accounting matrix
Irfan Ahmed, Said Jaouadi, Ilhem Zorgui, Mohammad Arif RiazPurpose
This study analyzes the structure of intersectoral linkages and resource-income interactions within the Tunisian economy, with a focus on the implications for sustainability in water, energy, food and related sectors.
Design/methodology/approach
A detailed Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) for Tunisia is constructed to calibrate an extended input–output (IO) model. By integrating institutional income and expenditure flows into the production system, the SAM enables a more comprehensive representation of economic interdependencies. Linkage indexes derived from the extended model are compared with those from the traditional Leontief formulation to assess how institutional accounts reshape measured economic relationships.
Findings
The results demonstrate that integrating institutional income and expenditure flows into production structures substantially alters measured inter-commodity relationships. This expanded approach yields more nuanced insights into key commodities and their interactions, with significant relevance to public economic policy.
Practical implications
The findings emphasize the importance of understanding both production structures and economic linkages in the context of household socioeconomic conditions. The study provides guidance for policymakers seeking to promote efficient resource allocation, circular economy principles and inclusive socioeconomic development, thereby supporting Tunisia's strategy for sustainable growth.
Originality/value
By comparing traditional and extended IO models with SAM-based approaches, the research presents novel evidence regarding the economic and institutional interdependencies that underpin sustainable resource management in Tunisia.