Libya Plans New Fishing Vessel Factory at Misrata Steel Complex to Boost Maritime Industry and Non-Oil Exports

LEDA and LISCO discuss a new national project to manufacture fishing trawlers in Misrata. Learn how this project aims to boost Libya's non-oil economy and maritime fleet.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 25, 2026, 4:43 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from the Libya Herald.

Strategic Partnership to Modernize Libya’s Maritime Fleet

In a move to strengthen Libya's blue economy, the Libyan Export Development Authority (LEDA) has initiated formal talks with the Libyan Iron and Steel Company (LISCO) to launch a domestic shipbuilding industry. During a meeting held on April 22, 2026, LEDA Chairman Mohamed Al-Hangari and LISCO Chairman Mohamed Al-Fagih reviewed feasibility studies for a factory dedicated to the production of high-specification fishing vessels and trawlers. The project is designed to leverage LISCO’s existing industrial infrastructure in Misrata to provide the necessary raw steel and logistical site support.

Economic Diversification and Export Regulation

According to LEDA’s strategic vision, the establishment of a local trawler factory is a critical step toward diversifying Libya's revenue streams. By increasing the capacity and modernization of the domestic fishing fleet, the authority aims to boost production levels and implement better regulation over fish exports. LEDA officials emphasized that moving beyond oil reliance requires investing in sectors where Libya holds a natural geographic advantage, such as the Mediterranean fisheries, which remain largely under-industrialized.

Infrastructure Tour and Operational Assessment

Following the technical discussions, the LEDA delegation conducted an extensive tour of LISCO’s commercial port and industrial facilities. The assessment focused on the plant’s operational capabilities and the logistical services available for large-scale maritime manufacturing. LEDA’s leadership underscored that utilizing LISCO’s massive infrastructure—already a cornerstone of Libyan industry—would significantly reduce the initial capital expenditure and lead time required to bring the national shipbuilding project to fruition.