The Misurata Free Zone announced today the signing of a long-term strategic public–private partnership with Qatar-based Maha Capital Partners (MCP) and Terminal Investment Limited (TIL)—the investment and operating arm of the MSC Group, the world’s largest container shipping company. The partnership aims to develop, modernize, and expand the Misurata Free Zone Port, transforming it into a major logistics gateway in the Mediterranean and a regional transshipment hub.
This agreement represents the largest non-oil infrastructure investment in Libya since 2011, marking a pivotal step in rebuilding national infrastructure and strengthening Libya’s integration into regional and global supply chains.
Target Operational Capacity: 4 Million TEUs Annually
The partnership seeks to gradually increase the port’s capacity to 4 million TEUs per year through a phased development program that includes:
- Comprehensive upgrades to operating systems, equipment, berths, and yards.
- Integration of advanced digital Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround times.
- Development of facilities capable of accommodating deep-sea and ultra-large container vessels.
- Direct integration of the port with the Free Zone and the surrounding industrial and logistics ecosystem.
- Implementation of the highest standards of safety, security, and environmental sustainability in line with international best practices.
Broad and Direct Economic Impact
According to initial estimates:
- 2,000 direct jobs will be created in the operation of existing container terminals and the deep-water terminal.
- More than 40,000 indirect jobs will be generated across transport, services, industry, and supply chains.
- Total investment under the strategic partnership is expected to reach USD 2.7 billion.
These outcomes will help solidify Libya’s role as a regional logistics center linking Europe with North Africa and the African hinterland.
Global Expertise and Long-Term Financing
TIL / MSC brings a global shipping network spanning more than 500 ports, along with extensive operational expertise in managing some of the world’s largest container terminals across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas—ensuring the attraction of major shipping lines and stable cargo volumes.
In parallel, Maha Capital Partners will provide long-term investment and institutional expertise in financing large-scale infrastructure projects in emerging markets, with a strong focus on governance, sustainability, and maximizing economic impact.
Government Endorsement
In his remarks at the signing ceremony, Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid Aldabaiba, emphasized that the project:
“Represents a strategic investment in Libya’s economic future, places the country on the map of key Mediterranean hub ports, supports income diversification, creates tens of thousands of jobs, and strengthens international investors’ confidence in the stability and attractiveness of the Libyan market.”
He noted that the project will be implemented in three main phases:
- Immediate operational efficiency improvements through equipment and systems upgrades.
- Deep expansion of berths and basins to accommodate mega vessels and increase capacity.
- A long-term sustainability and growth phase to firmly establish the port as a regional transshipment hub.
Leadership of the Misurata Free Zone
For his part, the Chairman of Misurata Free Zone, Mr. Muhsin Sigutri, highlighted the Free Zone’s leading role in the project, stating: “This partnership reflects the Misurata Free Zone’s determination to build modern, globally competitive infrastructure that supports new industries, creates local jobs, and strengthens Libya’s position within regional and international supply chains. The Free Zone was established as a gateway for investment and growth, and today we take a decisive step toward realizing that vision.”
Strategic Location and Libya’s Commercial Gateway
The Misurata Free Zone—covering 2,576 hectares, with expansion plans reaching 20,000 hectares—operates a port that currently handles 60–65% of Libya’s container trade, making it the country’s most important maritime gateway.
This partnership will transform the Misurata Free Zone Port from a leading national port into a Mediterranean logistics platform capable of serving transshipment trade, supporting industrial development, attracting investment, and reinforcing Libya’s role as a strategic link between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
