Misrata is playing a central role in the diversification of Libya's economy, focusing on the shipping, manufacturing, automotive, construction, ICT, health care and education sectors. With strategic ports like Tripoli, Benghazi and Misrata, the government aims to make the country an international trade hub through partnerships with private investors for port modernisation. Tax incentives and free
The railway system was established in 1912 during the Italian occupation of the country, but it has remained largely unused since 1965, with a total track length of just over 600 km. The government has been working on plans to revitalise the rail network since 1998. Following various construction projects over the years, progress was halted by the outbreak of conflict in 2011. Libya’s…
The Misurata Free Zone (MFZ), established by government decree in 2000, aims to promote the development of manufacturing, industry and entrepreneurship in the Misrata region, as part of efforts to diversify the broader national economy. As an independent entity operating under the Ministry of Economy, the MFZ seeks to optimise local potential and resources in the context of sustainable growth. Creating…
The history of air transport in Libya dates back to the establishment of Libyan Airlines in 1964. In recent years the country’s air transport segment has faced significant uncertainties, including political instability, investment shortfalls and outdated infrastructure. These challenges have resulted in disruptions to air travel, with major airports in Tripoli, Benghazi and Misrata having experienced…
Significant political and economic turmoil in Libya since 2011 has had a ripple effect across various sectors of the economy in Misrata. The development of the logistics sector has been hindered by challenges such as infrastructure shortfalls, security concerns and political instability, with the World Bank’s logistics performance index placing Libya at 139th globally in 2023. However, the…
Interview:Muhsen Sigutri To what extent can Misrata and Libya compete more effectively as a shipping and logistics centre? MUHSEN SIGUTRI: The fluctuations in energy prices and global supply chain disruptions have primarily impacted cargo and shipment prices. The sector has witnessed significant price changes in recent years, with some fares increasing by more than 100% due not only to energy…
Trade has played a significant role in Libya’s economy since the early 2000s, although it faced significant challenges due to economic and trade sanctions imposed by Western governments prior to the revolution. There has been a modest resurgence in trade, particularly as stability has improved with trade partners keen to capitalise on Libya’s strategic location. Misrata’s transit trade endeavours…
Despite headwinds ranging from ports and terminal closures and the risk of piracy and theft to Libya's political division, this critical sector is rebounding amid improved infrastructure and enhanced logistics capabilities, including the rehabilitation of roads and the expansion of airports. Additionally, in recent years several foreign companies have expressed interest in investing in the logistics…
Given the supply chain disruptions since the Covid-19 pandemic, investment in ports and free zones has become more crucial to the global economy and the resilience of trade. With transport one of the leading contributors of carbon emissions globally, ensuring new and existing infrastructure aligns with internationally established environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles is a growing…
