Libya strengthens food security as global supply chains falter

The reopening of a major flour mill in Sirte is being presented as a key step towards strengthening Libya’s food security, particularly as regional instability threatens supply chains that the country has long depended on.

The Al-Sabah Mill at the Sirte Milling and Grinding Complex resumed operations after rehabilitation work was completed on March 8 2026, according to Sirte Municipality and the National Development Agency (NDA), reports the Libya Herald. Officials said the project forms part of broader efforts to restore economic activity in the city while reinforcing domestic food production.

The facility was repaired and returned to service in less than ten months. Now operational again, the mill is expected to support the local economy and improve the availability of staple food products.

Equipped with five production lines, the complex includes storage silos capable of holding 1,000 tonnes each. The plant can process approximately 150 tonnes of flour and 35 tonnes of bran daily, helping to supply the local market with essential grain products.

The renewed focus on domestic production comes as Libya remains heavily reliant on food imports. International studies estimate that between 75% and 90% of food consumed in the country is sourced from abroad, according to data from the OECD. This reliance leaves the country vulnerable to disruptions in global trade due to regional conflicts or other supply-side shocks. Data from the World Bank’s World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) shows that the United Arab Emirates is one of the leading countries supplying food products to Libya, providing around 25% of Libya’s food imports.

The resulting conflict from the US-Israeli attack on Iran has raised concerns over food supply chains that pass through Gulf trading hubs, due to Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by the Financial Times. In such circumstances, supply interruptions from major partners such as the UAE could place additional pressure on Libya’s food system.

Against this backdrop, local authorities say the reopening of the Sirte mill demonstrates efforts to reduce reliance on imports and strengthen the country’s resilience. Sirte Municipality described the project as offering “renewed hope for vital initiatives”, while creating jobs and stimulating economic activity.

Officials added that projects such as the rehabilitation of the mill are aligned with the goals of Libya Vision 2030, which aims to develop modern productive infrastructure and support long-term economic stability.

Libya Herald, WITS, OECD, Financial Times, Maghrebi.org