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🛒 تسوق الآنAmerican CEO Debbie Hirst Launches Libya's First Antimony Smelter in Benghazi
American CEO Debbie Hirst Launches Libya's First Antimony Smelter in Benghazi
US Firm Rocksenergia Signs Landmark Deal at Elmreisa Free Zone — First American Investment in Libya's Mining Sector
American business leader Debbie Hirst is making history in Libya's economy. As president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Libya (AmCham Libya), Hirst is spearheading the construction of the country's first antimony smelter at Benghazi's Elmreisa Free Zone (EFZ) — a project that represents the first-ever American industrial operation in the zone and a major milestone for Libya's mining sector.
The agreement was signed on June 10, 2026, between US company Rocksenergia and TRASS for Industrial Investments Company, the developer of the EFZ. The signing ceremony was attended by top Libyan and American officials, including the Chairman of the National Development Agency Jibril Al-Badri, the Director General Mahmoud al-Ferjani, and Mike LaRocque, Economic and Commercial Officer at the U.S. Embassy to Libya. The presence of senior US Embassy officials underscored the strategic importance Washington places on the project.
What Is Antimony and Why Does It Matter?
Antimony is a critical mineral used in batteries, flame retardants, and solar panels. Global demand has surged as countries race to secure clean energy supply chains. The United States has classified antimony as a strategic mineral, and President Trump launched a wide-ranging initiative in September 2025 to secure supplies of critical metals — an initiative that has now reached eastern Libya.
Rocksenergia's smelter will produce high-purity antimony, positioning Libya as a new player in the global critical minerals market. The project is expected to strengthen local supply chains while opening new horizons for value-added manufacturing and mining industries in the country.
Key Facts About the Project
- First at EFZ: This is the first project signed at Benghazi's Elmreisa Free Zone, a strategic economic zone designed to attract foreign direct investment.
- First in Mining: It is the first major project in Libya's mineral processing sector, marking a diversification beyond oil and gas.
- US-Libya Cooperation: The project reflects growing confidence in Libya's investment environment and deepening US-Libya economic ties.
- Strategic Timing: The signing coincides with ongoing reconstruction and infrastructure improvements in Benghazi following years of conflict.
- High-Level Support: Senior officials from both the US Embassy and Libyan government agencies attended the signing ceremony.
Debbie Hirst: From Gypsum to Critical Minerals
Debbie Hirst is no stranger to Libya's industrial landscape. She previously served as General Manager of the Libyan American Gypsum Company and has over two decades of experience leading multi-billion USD investments in emerging markets. Her expertise in international management and finance has made her one of the most influential American business figures operating in North Africa.
Through AmCham Libya, Hirst has been instrumental in facilitating American investment in the country. She also played a key role in organizing the Second AmCham Pavilion at LEES 2026 (Libya Energy & Economic Summit) in February 2026, further strengthening ties between US companies and Libyan institutions.
Why This Matters for Libya's Economy
Libya's economy has long been dominated by oil and gas, which account for approximately 95% of export revenues. The antimony smelter represents a significant step toward economic diversification — a priority for Libyan policymakers and international development partners alike.
The EFZ is one of Libya's strategic economic zones, designed to incubate investment projects that enhance economic activity, diversify national income sources, and support sustainable development and job creation. The Rocksenergia project is expected to create employment opportunities in Benghazi and contribute to the city's post-conflict reconstruction.
According to the US Embassy, the project is designed to reinforce and diversify resilient global supply chains for critical minerals — a goal that aligns with both American strategic interests and Libya's development priorities.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for US-Libya Economic Relations
This project signals a new chapter in US-Libya economic cooperation. With the White House actively pursuing mining diplomacy worldwide, Libya's untapped mineral resources — including antimony, iron ore, and other strategic minerals — are attracting renewed international attention.
For Debbie Hirst and AmCham Libya, the antimony smelter is just the beginning. As Libya rebuilds its infrastructure, American companies are watching closely for opportunities in mining, energy, and manufacturing.
— LibyaPress / Economy Desk
