French energy giant TotalEnergies has restarted oil production at the Mabruk oilfield in Libya, marking the field’s return to operation after more than a decade of shutdown.
The Mabruk field is located about 130 kilometres south of Sirte, within Concession C17. The site is operated by Mabruk Oil Operations, a joint venture between the National Oil Corporation and several international partners. TotalEnergies holds a 37.5 percent stake in the project.
Production at the field had been halted since 2015 amid security challenges and instability following Libya’s political turmoil. The restart represents part of broader efforts to revive the country’s vital hydrocarbons sector.
Construction of a new production unit with a capacity of 25,000 barrels per day began in May 2024. According to TotalEnergies, the facility officially began operations on 28 February this year.
Julien Pouget, regional director for exploration and production at TotalEnergies in the Middle East and North Africa, said the project aligns with the company’s strategy to expand low-cost and lower-emission oil production while maintaining steady growth.
International energy companies have increasingly sought to re-engage with Libya’s oil sector in recent months. The country holds Africa’s largest proven crude oil reserves and produces relatively low-cost, light sweet crude, which remains highly attractive for global markets.
Libya’s oil output has gradually recovered despite years of disruptions caused by political disputes, blockades and security challenges since the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi.
Current national production has rebounded to around 1.4 million barrels per day, the highest level in more than a decade. Authorities aim to increase crude production to 1.6 million barrels per day by the end of 2026.
Earlier this year, Libya signed a major 25-year oil development agreement worth more than $20 billion with TotalEnergies and ConocoPhillips, designed to expand capacity and strengthen long-term production.
As Europe continues to diversify its energy sources, Libyan crude exports are becoming increasingly important for regional energy security.