Libya and Tunisia concluded a joint customs technical committee meeting in Tripoli this week, marking progress in enhancing cross-border cooperation and easing trade and travel restrictions between the two neighbours.
The meeting, held at the headquarters of the Libyan Customs Authority, brought together senior officials from both countries. It ended with the signing of an official memorandum that included a set of recommendations to improve customs procedures and strengthen cooperation at border crossings.
The two sides agreed to address issues related to customs violation reports concerning currency carried by travellers. They proposed potential solutions that will be submitted to the higher joint committee for final approval.
The Tunisian delegation recommended that Libyan citizens take advantage of Tunisia’s ongoing 2025 customs violation amnesty. Both countries also agreed to organise joint training programmes and workshops to enhance the skills of customs personnel, especially at the Ras Jedir and Wazen crossings.
An immediate communication mechanism will be established to support efforts to combat smuggling. Additionally, the use of a standardised delivery and receipt document will be made mandatory for all imports and exports, to be accompanied by relevant supporting documents.
The Libyan side requested the removal of restrictions on the negative list of foreign goods transiting through Tunisia en route to Libya. Tunisian officials responded by confirming that inter-ministerial talks are already underway to review the list.
Libyan officials also updated the Tunisian delegation on developments at the Ras Jedir crossing, including the completion of a new joint customs facility and the installation of modern inspection equipment. Tunisia welcomed these upgrades and agreed to begin implementing joint procedures soon.
The meeting closed with plans for a future session between the Libyan Customs Social Welfare Fund and Tunisia’s Customs Officers’ Cooperative to explore shared support initiatives for customs staff.
