According to recent French trade data, French exports to Libya experienced significant growth, rising by 10.3% during the first half of 2026. This increase reflects a broader trend of growing French interest in the Libyan market. In 2025, the value of French exports to Libya reached 448 million euros, marking a 50% increase compared to 2024. This growth is a positive indicator for the economic relations between France and Libya.

The growing interest of French companies in the Libyan market is evident in their increasing participation in Libyan business events. In September 2026, Business France, a French trade agency, led a delegation of 17 companies to eastern Libya. This followed the agency's participation in the Tripoli Oil Summit in January 2026, which saw the attendance of 19 French companies. These developments suggest that French businesses are keen to explore opportunities in Libya's reconstruction, construction, maritime transport, water and sanitation, and energy infrastructure sectors.

The sectors of reconstruction, construction, and energy infrastructure are particularly promising for French companies. Libya has been working to rebuild and develop its infrastructure, and French businesses are well-positioned to contribute to these efforts. The Libyan government's focus on rebuilding and modernizing its infrastructure has created opportunities for foreign investment, and French companies are eager to capitalize on these prospects.

The growth in French exports to Libya is also reflective of the country's efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil exports. The Libyan government has been working to promote investment in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, and manufacturing. French companies are likely to play a significant role in these efforts, given their expertise and experience in these areas.

In addition to the growth in exports, there are also signs of increasing cooperation between French and Libyan businesses. The participation of French companies in Libyan business events and the presence of a French delegation in eastern Libya demonstrate a strong interest in developing business ties between the two countries. This cooperation is likely to have a positive impact on the economic relations between France and Libya.

The increase in French exports to Libya is also significant in the context of the country's economic recovery. Libya has faced significant economic challenges in recent years, including a decline in oil production and a depreciation of the Libyan dinar. The growth in French exports to Libya suggests that the country is making progress in its economic recovery and that there is increasing confidence in the Libyan market.

Overall, the growth in French exports to Libya reflects a positive trend in the economic relations between the two countries. With French companies continuing to show interest in the Libyan market, it is likely that this trend will continue in the coming months. The increase in exports is also a positive indicator for Libya's economic recovery and its efforts to diversify its economy.

Key points

  • French exports to Libya rose by 10.3% in the first half of 2026, reaching 448 million euros in 2025.
  • French companies are increasingly interested in the Libyan market, with 17 companies participating in a business delegation to eastern Libya in September 2026.
  • The growth in French exports to Libya reflects the country's efforts to rebuild and develop its infrastructure, with opportunities for investment in sectors such as construction, energy, and water and sanitation.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.