Libya Bars Foreign Drivers in Goods Transport Sector: Implications for Compliance and Labour Law
Libya’s Ministry of Economy and Trade has issued a significant decree, No. (532) of 2026, effectively prohibiting the employment or utilisation of foreign nationals as drivers for the transportation of goods and commodities within the country. This directive, signed by Minister Suhail Abu Shiha, aligns with existing Libyan legislation governing labour and road transport, signalling a move towards greater nationalisation within this critical economic sector.
The scope of the decree is comprehensive, encompassing the operation of all trucks and vehicles engaged in the transport of goods and commodities. This applies whether such services are provided to third parties or directly for employers. The prohibition is triggered whenever the operation or employment of these drivers falls under the purview of applicable Libyan legislation, underscoring the Ministry’s intent to enforce national labour and transport regulations rigorously.
This regulatory shift is framed by the Ministry as a strategic effort to enhance the oversight of road transport activities. It aims to bolster adherence to labour market legislation and ensure that all transportation operations within Libya are conducted in strict accordance with the country’s legal framework. For businesses operating within or engaging with the Libyan market, this decree necessitates a thorough review of their logistics and employment practices.
The implications for legal counsel, compliance officers, and corporate executives are substantial. Companies relying on foreign drivers for their supply chain operations within Libya must now develop strategies to transition to a locally sourced workforce. This may involve navigating new recruitment processes, ensuring compliance with local employment laws, and potentially addressing any associated cost implications. Investors and business leaders should also factor this regulatory change into their risk assessments and operational planning for ventures in Libya. The decree serves as a clear signal of the Libyan government’s commitment to prioritising national labour resources and enforcing its regulatory mandates within the transport and logistics industry.
