WFP Report: Libya’s Food Basket Price Hits 954.89 Dinars in December

The Full Minimum Expenditure Basket (MEB) in Libya experienced a slight increase of 1.2% in December, reaching a national price of LYD 954.89. This continues the steady upward trend observed throughout 2024, with prices now 18.0% higher than at the beginning of the year.
Regional Breakdown
• Eastern Region: The MEB rose by 1.1% to LYD 914.67. Despite a slight price decrease in Kufra, it remains the most expensive market in the region at LYD 1,081.71. The city continues to face an influx of Sudanese refugees, which is putting pressure on local market dynamics.
• Western Region: The MEB increased by 1.6% to LYD 991.05, maintaining its position as the most expensive region nationally for the third consecutive month. Violent clashes in December, particularly in Zawia city, led to fires at the Zawia Oil Refinery, Libya’s second-largest. This forced the National Oil Corporation to declare force majeure, shutting down the refinery and significantly disrupting local markets.
• Southern Region: The MEB rose by 1.1% to LYD 949.52, driven by increases in the non-food basket, especially cooking fuel prices. Ongoing environmental challenges, such as heavy rains and road closures, may have further impacted market dynamics.