Tripoli – Libya has been experiencing a diesel (naphtha) shortage for several months, leading to growing complaints from production, industrial, and transport sectors over the difficulty in obtaining fuel. Calls are increasing for stricter oversight of the distribution network and stronger measures to combat fuel smuggling and abuses.
These developments come after the Attorney General ordered the detention of several officials from Brega Oil Marketing Company and other fuel distribution companies amid investigations into corruption, public fund mismanagement, and violations linked to fuel distribution. This has brought renewed attention to the need for reforming fuel distribution in Libya.
On Wednesday evening, Brega Oil Marketing Company issued a statement outlining its mechanism for providing diesel to private entities and explaining its approved contracting terms. The company stated that all supply operations follow a comprehensive set of legal, technical, and regulatory procedures. These aim to accurately determine actual needs, organize supply and distribution on clear and transparent grounds, and ensure efficient use and safety of the fuel supply system.
The company’s operations and management division affirmed its full commitment to the 2025 board decision regulating fuel distribution. It said disbursement or supply of naphtha or any petroleum product is strictly prohibited without a valid, approved contract, and only within the contractual limits and specific conditions.
Brega warned that any entity disbursing fuel in violation of these rules bears full legal responsibility for their actions. Supplies are limited to organizations and companies that have completed the regulatory process and have officially approved contracts. No fuel will be provided to entities that have not met these requirements.
The statement detailed that the supply process begins with a special committee tasked with reviewing applications and verifying actual need, including site visits to companies and factories to assess their operations and consumption rates. This helps determine appropriate quantities according to genuine requirements and promotes efficient supply management.
The inspection department plays a key role in finalizing procedures by conducting technical checks and site inspections. This ensures that applying organizations meet all safety and technical standards, including site readiness, equipment safety, and compliance with security and safety requirements. Technical inspection reports are part of the approval process for fuel contracts.
For requests of up to 40,000 liters, supply contracts are exclusively signed with one of five approved distribution companies: Al-Sharara Al-Dhahabiya, Al-Rahla Oil Services, Libya Oil, Al-Thiqa, and Al-Turuq Al-Sari’a, following all regulatory procedures.
Requests exceeding 40,000 liters are handled directly by Brega after the needs assessment is completed and all contractual requirements are met.
Brega confirmed that all applicants must provide valid legal and technical documents, including a recent commercial registration, certificate from the chamber of commerce, tax clearance, Ministry of Environment activity permit, clearance from approved distribution companies, inspection reports on earthing systems, comprehensive insurance for mobile stations, and National Safety Authority approval.
The company concluded by stressing that all supplies to private companies and factories are managed through approved technical procedures to ensure transparency and proper allocation of petroleum products. This is coordinated with relevant authorities to support economic activity and maintain the integrity and efficiency of the supply system.
This clarification comes amid mounting demands from the Libyan public for disclosure of ongoing investigations into fuel distribution, greater transparency and oversight of the petroleum supply network, and practical solutions to an ongoing crisis that has directly impacted the country’s economy and public services.