The trade link between Tunisia and Libya is facing a major disruption, due to a strike by Libyan truck drivers, bringing Tunisian overland exports to a near standstill.
In press statements, Ali Al-Thawadi, Head of the Tunisian-Libyan Chamber of Commerce added that the strike, sparked by a set of sector-specific demands, has been in effect for several days, significantly impacting the flow of goods between the two neighbouring countries.
Al-Thawadi indicated that a staggering 99% of Tunisia’s exports to Libya are reliant on overland transport, underscoring the severity of the current halt. However, there appears to be a glimmer of hope, as the Libyan government has begun negotiations with the truckers’ unions and the drivers.
Compounding the situation is a recent move by the eastern Libyan government to prohibit the import of certain construction materials, including gypsum, iron, cement, ceramics, and marble. Despite this, Al-Dhuwadi noted that the impact on Tunisia has been minimal due to the relatively low volume of exports to eastern Libya, compounded by the absence of a direct maritime trading route.
This trade interruption occurs amidst a complex regional economic and political scenario. Libya, still recovering from a prolonged period of conflict and instability, is a crucial trade partner for Tunisia. The current halt in exports highlights the challenges in regional trade, particularly the dependence on overland transportation routes.
Tunisia’s economy, with key sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, heavily relies on its export capacity. The trade relationship with Libya is especially vital for sectors that produce essential items, like food and building materials.
The combination of the strike and the import ban reflects broader economic challenges within Libya, including efforts to stabilize the economy and reduce reliance on imports. The lack of a maritime trade route to eastern Libya further highlights the need for improved infrastructure, and diversified trade channels between the two nations.