• Libya oil output reaches 1.43 million barrels per day

• Production nears pre-2011 levels as operations stabilize

• Oil dominates economy, contributing 95% of exports

Libya’s state-owned National Oil Corporation (NOC) said crude oil production had reached 1.43 million barrels per day. According to The Libya Observer, citing official data released in early April, this is the highest level recorded in more than a decade.

The increase brings Libya closer to pre-2011 output levels. At that time, the country, which holds Africa’s largest proven crude oil reserves estimated at between 48.3 billion and 48.4 billion barrels, produced between 1.6 million and 1.7 million barrels per day, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The rise comes as operations gradually resume at several oil fields and export terminals. The NOC said production has stabilised following periods of disruption caused by blockades and technical constraints.

The company added that continued output has been supported by improved infrastructure availability.

Oil revenues reached 10.7 billion Libyan dinars (about $1.67 billion) in February 2026, according to the Central Bank of Libya (CBL). These revenues, generated from hydrocarbon exports, highlight the Libyan economy’s heavy reliance on the oil sector.

The oil sector remains central to public finances. Data from the CBL and Coface show that oil and gas account for around 95% of exports and 90% of government revenue. In October 2025, Libyan authorities said they aim to raise production to 1.6 million barrels per day by the end of 2026.

As part of this plan, Libya is preparing an oil sector recovery programme backed by investments estimated at between $3 billion and $4 billion. The funds are intended to modernise infrastructure and restore production capacity.

Authorities said maintaining current output will depend in particular on a reliable electricity supply and the proper functioning of installations, according to The Libya Observer.

Abdel-Latif Boureima