Pakistan eyes Libya’s $31 billion import market amid reconstruction drive

KARACHI: With Libya importing goods worth $31 billion annually, Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Libya Major General (Retd.) Mumtaz Hussain urged local exporters to move quickly to secure a share before European firms dominate the post-reconstruction market.

Speaking at Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry, he said Libya’s reconstruction of housing, infrastructure and public facilities is creating massive demand for imported products. At present, most supplies come from Egypt and Turkey, while Pakistan’s exports stand at just $15-16 million, or 0.04% of Libya’s total imports.

“Where there are challenges, there are also opportunities,” he said, noting Libya’s $46-47 billion GDP and relatively high per capita income. He projected bilateral trade could reach $500 million if businesses act now through B2B and chamber-to-chamber linkages.

The envoy highlighted immediate openings in textiles, furniture, rice, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, tiles and sports goods. He also flagged demand for 50,000 skilled Libyan workers, with Pakistan already receiving official requests for thousands.

KCCI President Rehan Hanif backed the call, urging direct ties with Libyan chambers. The Ambassador-designate added that Pakistan has strengthened its diplomatic presence with staff in Tripoli and Benghazi, and the State Bank is working on payment mechanisms to support trade.