A strategic partnership agreement was signed on Sunday at Misrata Free Zone to expand and modernise its port terminal. Held under the auspices of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, the ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani. The project is regarded as one of the most significant investment ventures in Libya’s maritime and logistics sector in recent years.
Misrata Free Zone Board Explores Investment Opportunities with Acting Chinese Ambassador
Strategic Project with International Funding
The agreement outlines a full infrastructure development plan backed by $2.7 billion in foreign investment. A consortium of international firms from Qatar, Italy, and Switzerland—led by the global shipping giant MSC—will work to increase the port’s capacity to approximately 4 million containers annually, ensuring it meets the demands of regional and international trade.
External Financing and Professional Operation
Prime Minister Dbeibah emphasised that the project relies on direct foreign investment, ensuring no additional financial burden on the state budget while maintaining national sovereignty over the vital facility. He noted that partnering with experienced global operators will facilitate knowledge transfer and the implementation of advanced management and maritime safety systems. The development is expected to transform Misrata Free Zone port into a primary hub in the Mediterranean, with projected annual operational revenues of $600 million.
Surge in Activity and Arrival of Diverse Cargo Ships in Misrata Port
Financial Returns and Job Creation
Beyond its financial impact, the project is set to create 8,400 direct jobs and approximately 62,000 indirect opportunities in the transport and service sectors. The high-level international presence at the signing underscores a renewed confidence in Libya’s investment climate and its ability to attract major global players for long-term strategic projects. This initiative aligns with a broader national vision to modernise infrastructure and integrate Libya more effectively into global trade networks