US$2.7bn being spent to upgrade Libya’s biggest port and free zone

The two partners are Qatar-based Maha Capital Partners, and Terminal Investment Limited, the investment and operating arm of the MSC Group, the world’s largest container shipping company. 

According to a statement released following the signing of the agreement, the partnership seeks to gradually increase the port’s capacity to 4-million TEUs (a standard measurement for cargo capacity, based on a 6.1m standard shipping container) per year through a phased development programme that includes: 

• Comprehensive upgrades to operating systems, equipment, berths and yards. 

• Integration of advanced digital Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround times. 

• Development of facilities capable of accommodating deep-sea and ultra-large container vessels. 

• Direct integration of the port with the Free Zone and the surrounding industrial and logistics ecosystem. 

• Implementation of the highest standards of safety, security and environmental sustainability in line with international best practices. 

Total investment under the strategic partnership is expected to reach US2.7-billion. When fully operational, the redeveloped Misurata Free Zone Port will help solidify Libya’s role as a regional supply chain hub linking Europe with North Africa and the African hinterland. 

Globally competitive infrastructure 

“This partnership reflects the Misurata Free Zone’s determination to build modern, globally competitive infrastructure that supports new industries, creates local jobs and strengthens Libya’s position within regional and international supply chains,” said Muhsin Sigutri, Chairman of the zone, at the signing ceremony. 

“The Free Zone was established as a gateway for investment and growth, and today we take a decisive step toward realising that vision.” 

In his remarks, Prime Minister of Libya’s Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid Aldabaiba, said the project “represents a strategic investment in Libya’s economic future, places the country on the map of key Mediterranean hub ports, supports income diversification, creates tens of thousands of jobs, and strengthens international investors’ confidence in the stability and attractiveness of the Libyan market.” 

The Misurata Free Zone currently covers 2,500 hectares and will reach 20,000 hectares with the expansion plans. The port currently handles 60–65% of Libya’s container trade, making it the country’s most important maritime gateway. 

Period of relative stability 

Libya is enjoying a period of relative stability following years of internal conflict that began in 2011 with the overthrow of long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi. 

According to news agency Reuters, the oil-rich nation has struggled to stabilise its economy and maintain consistent revenue flows amid fluctuating oil production and prices, which serve as the backbone of its economy. 

The African Development Bank’s economic outlook for Libya is positive, with a projected growth rate of 4% in 2026, following on from a good growth of more than 12% in 2025. This is contingent on political stability and moderate rising oil production.