News|EnvironmentGeneral strike shuts down Tunisia’s Gabes over pollution crisisMore than 200 people have been hospitalised in recent weeks with respiratory issues blamed on a local chemical plant.

Environmental Impact and Public Response in Gabes, Tunisia

Recent events in Gabes, a city in southern Tunisia, highlight significant public discontent related to environmental pollution caused by the state-run CGT phosphate plant. A general strike, organized by the UGTT labor union, resulted in the closure of shops, markets, schools, and cafes, effectively halting economic activities on Tue, Oct 14, 2025.

Protesters have been actively marching in Gabes, carrying banners and chanting slogans such as “Gabes wants to live” and “dismantle the polluting units.” This movement emphasizes the community's demand for addressing the environmental issues linked to the phosphate plant.

Local residents have voiced concerns over the plant's impact on public health and the environment, citing increased cases of gas poisoning, cancer, and declining marine life. Reports indicate that over 200 individuals have been hospitalized recently due to respiratory distress and gas exposure.

Historical Context and Government Response

The phosphate plant, operational since 1972, has been identified as a major source of pollution. Despite a governmental promise in 2017 to phase out the plant, production has been increased, citing phosphate's importance to the national economy. In response to the current crisis, authorities have announced “urgent measures” and engaged Chinese firms to mitigate emissions and prevent further environmental damage.

Sami Al-Tahiri, UGTT's secretary-general, has stated that the strike was widely supported by the population, emphasizing the union's readiness to escalate actions if necessary to hold authorities accountable for environmental and social issues.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.