Libya’s crude oil production has reached its highest level in more than a decade, edging closer to output levels seen before the 2011 civil war, the country’s state-owned National Oil Corporation (NOC) said on Tuesday.
According to official data reported by The Libya Observer, Libya is now producing 1.43 million barrels per day (bpd). This marks a significant recovery from years of disruption caused by political instability, blockades, and technical challenges, as the country seeks to restore its status as Africa’s largest oil producer.
Before the 2011 uprising, Libya’s daily output ranged between 1.6 million and 1.7 million bpd, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The NOC said the latest increase reflects a stabilisation of operations at key oil fields and export terminals, supported by improved infrastructure and logistical efficiency.
“Production has stabilised following periods of disruption, and ongoing operations at major facilities are enabling us to move closer to our pre-crisis capacity,” the NOC said in a statement.
The oil sector remains the backbone of Libya’s economy. Data from the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) show that hydrocarbon exports accounted for around 95 percent of the country’s total exports and 90 percent of government revenue as of 2025. In February 2026 alone, oil revenues reached 10.7 billion Libyan dinars, equivalent to about US$1.67 billion.
Libyan authorities have set ambitious targets for further growth, aiming to raise output to 1.6 million bpd by the end of 2026. To achieve this, the government is preparing a recovery programme for the oil sector, supported by investments estimated between US$3 billion and US$4 billion. The programme is designed to modernise infrastructure, repair ageing installations, and expand production capacity.
“The continuity of current output levels will depend heavily on a stable electricity supply and the proper functioning of oil facilities,” officials told The Libya Observer.
Libya holds Africa’s largest proven crude oil reserves, estimated at 48.3 to 48.4 billion barrels. Oil revenue remains critical to public finances, funding government spending and social services, even as the country diversifies parts of its economy. Analysts warn, however, that heavy reliance on hydrocarbons leaves Libya vulnerable to global price swings and domestic operational risks.
The NOC’s announcement comes amid broader efforts to stabilise the country’s oil sector following years of intermittent production interruptions due to political and security challenges. Restoring Libya’s oil output is seen as essential to the government’s economic recovery plans and to meeting rising domestic and international energy demand.
As Libya moves closer to pre-2011 production levels, the country’s leaders hope that sustained output and continued investment in infrastructure will provide a more predictable revenue stream and enhance economic stability.
For now, Libya’s oil recovery offers a measure of optimism for the economy, signalling that after more than a decade of disruption, the country is reclaiming its role as a major energy supplier in the region.
