While Misrata has traditionally relied on industries such as manufacturing and trade, the agriculture sector and food segment has been quietly gaining momentum in recent years. The agricultural landscape in Libya is primarily located within a narrow belt along the Mediterranean coastline, including the region around Misrata, select mountainous regions and various oases within the desert.
Misrata’s relatively favourable climate and fertile land have fostered the growth of various crops, including olives, citrus fruits and grains, while proximity to the city’s trade infrastructure has assisted with access and distribution to domestic markets. These agricultural endeavours have an important bearing on Libya’s economy, employing approximately 5% of the labour force and constituting nearly 9% of GDP as of 2019. Privately owned farms, pivotal in the sector, yield most of the country’s agricultural products. The growth of agriculture and food businesses in Misrata has positively impacted the local economy. The sector has provided a crucial avenue for diversification beyond traditional industries by creating employment opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship and attracting investment.
Furthermore, the national government has implemented desert-based irrigation initiatives in order to bolster the production of cereals and forage. This resurgence can be attributed to a combination of factors, including government initiatives promoting agricultural investment and increasing recognition of the sector’s untapped potential. Additionally, agro-processing facilities and food manufacturing units are adding value to raw produce, facilitating the region’s integration into global supply chains and bolstering export potential. The Port of Misrata offers added potential for exports, particularly of manufactured food items that are less prone to spoilage.
In March 2022 the eighth Libyan International Forum and Exhibition for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries was held in Tripoli, with 160 companies participating, indicating the level of market development in the sector, particularly in the region around Tripoli and Misrata. Presentations of advancements in agricultural equipment, supplies and food-processing techniques underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen the sector, expand into foreign markets and foster economic diversification.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Marine Resources is pursuing digital farming techniques due to their potential to augment crop production. In May 2023 the ministry underscored the importance of utilising natural resources and implementing technology to enhance soil quality. The ministry has also expressed its intent to foster international cooperation within agriculture, stimulate sustainable development and safeguard food security around the world.
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