KARACHI, August 5: Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Libya, Major General (Retd.) Mumtaz Hussain, has urged the country’s business community to seize emerging trade, investment, and employment opportunities in Libya, saying the North African nation is entering a major reconstruction phase with growing demand for imported goods, skilled workers, and commercial partnerships.
Speaking during a visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), the ambassador-designate said bilateral trade between Pakistan and Libya has the potential to reach US$500 million if the private sector actively expands business-to-business (B2B) engagement and institutional cooperation.
Libya offers major opportunities for Pakistani exporters
Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Mumtaz Hussain said Libya’s reconstruction efforts have created significant demand for products and services, making it an attractive market for Pakistani exporters.
He noted that Libya has a GDP of around US$46–47 billion, relatively high per capita income, and substantial financial resources, adding that perceptions about instability should not discourage businesses from exploring the market.
According to the ambassador-designate, reconstruction projects across Libya are driving imports of infrastructure materials, housing supplies, consumer goods, and industrial products.
Demand for skilled Pakistani workers
The envoy said Libyan authorities currently require around 50,000 skilled workers, and Pakistan has already received official requests for thousands of workers.
He expressed concern that many skilled professionals remain hesitant due to misconceptions about Libya’s security situation, while assuring that the Government of Pakistan is working to facilitate safe and legal employment opportunities for overseas workers.
Banking, diplomacy, and market access
Responding to concerns over banking channels, Mumtaz Hussain said he has discussed payment mechanisms with the State Bank of Pakistan, which assured cooperation in identifying practical banking solutions to facilitate legitimate trade with Libya.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s strengthened diplomatic presence in Libya, with diplomatic representation now available in both Tripoli and Benghazi, enabling closer engagement with Libyan authorities and businesses.
KCCI calls for stronger trade ties
KCCI President Rehan Hanif said bilateral trade remains far below its potential despite strong relations between the two countries.
He noted that Libya imports nearly US$31 billion worth of goods annually, while Pakistan’s exports stand at only US$15–16 million, representing just 0.04% of Libya’s total imports.
Hanif identified textiles, garments, rice, pharmaceuticals, furniture, ceramics, sanitary ware, tiles, faucets, and sports goods as sectors with strong export potential and urged greater cooperation between Pakistani and Libyan chambers of commerce.
Both sides expressed optimism that stronger diplomatic support and private-sector collaboration could significantly expand trade and investment between Pakistan and Libya.
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