Libya's Economy Minister Meets Eastern Region Business Leaders to Boost Investment Climate

Eastern Libya business leaders and the Minister of Economy agree on new regulatory reforms as the Government of National Unity pushes to revitalize private-sector investment

Libya's Minister of Economy and Trade, Dr. Suhail Boushiha, met with the Libyan Business Owners Council in the Eastern Region on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, to discuss strengthening cooperation between the ministry and the private sector, alongside a series of regulatory reforms aimed at improving the investment climate across the country.

The meeting, attended by several council members and the Director of the Department of Studies and Economic Reforms at the ministry, focused on mechanisms to boost economic activity, stimulate investment, and enhance the role of the private sector in sustainable development, according to a statement released by the ministry.

Public-Private Partnership Takes Center Stage

Dr. Boushiha emphasized that the partnership between the public and private sectors represents a fundamental pillar for achieving sustainable economic development in Libya. He highlighted the need to increase the private sector's contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP), stimulate investment, create job opportunities, and support innovation and entrepreneurship across the country.

The minister stressed the importance of establishing a direct and permanent communication mechanism between the ministry and the Business Owners Council, allowing challenges and proposals to be conveyed more effectively. This institutional dialogue, he noted, would contribute to developing economic legislation and policies that meet the requirements of the current phase.

Three Key Regulatory Reforms Discussed

The meeting covered several regulatory decisions issued by the Cabinet and the Ministry of Economy and Trade, with three major reforms taking the spotlight:

  • Prime Minister's Decision No. (81) of 2025: Approving the regulation for supporting and guaranteeing financing for innovative startup companies. This decision aims to provide a legislative and regulatory environment that supports entrepreneurs and innovative projects, aligning with modern best practices to grow the national economy.
  • Minister of Economy Decision No. (319) of 2026: Approving the regulations governing the work of foreign commercial agencies. The decision organizes the operation of commercial agencies within a legal framework that enhances transparency, protects the rights of all parties, and raises the efficiency of the Libyan market.
  • Minister of Economy Decision No. (254) of 2026: Regulating commercial relations and legal distribution channels between principals, agents, and authorized commercial representatives in the local market. This regulatory tool aims to organize commercial relationships, promote fair competition, protect the rights of transacting parties, and improve the overall business environment.

Business Council's Role in Economic Development

The meeting addressed the role of the Business Owners Council in representing the business community in the Eastern Region and enhancing the private sector's contribution to economic development. Council members discussed supporting initiatives aimed at improving the investment and business environment across various sectors, particularly in light of the economic challenges facing the region.

The council's representatives highlighted the need for clearer regulatory frameworks and faster administrative procedures to unlock the potential of the private sector in the Eastern Region, which encompasses key commercial hubs including Benghazi, Tobruk, and Al-Bayda.

Commitment to Continued Dialogue

At the conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Boushiha reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to maintaining communication with private sector institutions, listening to their views and proposals, and working to develop legislative and regulatory frameworks that support investment. He stated that these efforts are essential to achieving the country's economic development targets and overcoming persistent structural challenges.

The meeting comes at a critical time for Libya's economy, as the Government of National Unity seeks to diversify revenue sources beyond the oil sector and encourage domestic and foreign investment in non-hydrocarbon industries. Strengthening the private sector is widely viewed as essential to creating sustainable employment for Libya's growing youth population and reducing the country's reliance on volatile oil revenues.

— Libya Press / Economy Desk