Regulation Guide for Maritime Sector Activity Licensing Instruments

The Ministry of Transportation approved a comprehensive regulatory framework codifying the types of licenses and permits required to operate maritime activities and services in Libyan ports. The regulation establishes a permitting system administered by the Ports and Maritime Transport Authority for all commercial maritime operations. It became effective immediately upon issuance on July 27, 2023.

Foreign maritime service providers, port operators, shipping agents, and logistics companies must now obtain specific practice permits from the Ports and Maritime Transport Authority to operate in Libyan waters and ports. This creates a formal licensing gateway that applies to all entities—whether natural or legal persons—conducting maritime commercial activities. The regulation standardizes what was previously an ambiguous licensing environment, but adds another layer of bureaucratic approval that foreign operators must navigate. Companies already operating may need to regularize their status under this new framework.