Libya dairy investment seen as path to stronger food security

Libya’s dairy sector could attract investment across farming, manufacturing and logistics as local producers work to cut import dependence and build a more integrated supply chain. Oxford Business Group’s latest video spotlights Al Naseem Food Industries and the role of quality standards, training and domestic inputs in expanding the market.

Why it matters: - Libya imports over €200 million of dairy from Europe each year. - Investment in the dairy value chain could strengthen food security and reduce reliance on imported inputs. - Expanding local production could create jobs across cattle breeding, feed production, processing, packaging and distribution. - Better integration across the supply chain could improve reliability for manufacturers and consumers.

What happened: - Oxford Business Group released a Global Platform video titled Libya’s Dairy Sector Offers New Investment Opportunities. - The video features Zeyad Aljroushi, Corporate Communications and CSR Director at Al Naseem Food Industries, and Yousef Swehli, Production Manager at Al Naseem Food Industries. - The discussion focuses on building an integrated, competitive and quality-focused dairy industry in Libya. - The video is now available online at the full interview.

The details: - Investment potential extends beyond milk processing into agricultural production, livestock development, manufacturing, logistics and packaging. - Domestic production of raw materials and packaging could help manufacturers limit supply disruptions. - Local producers can build trust by meeting internationally recognised quality standards. - Al Naseem Food Industries has worked with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock since 2023 to provide technical and logistical support to cattle breeders. - The goal of that work is to increase natural milk production and improve quality. - Misrata’s location supports efficient distribution across Libya. - Libyan nationals make up 90% of Al Naseem Food Industries’ workforce. - Young people account for 43% of the company’s Libyan employees.

Between the lines: - The opportunity in Libya is not just about replacing imports. It is about building a fuller industrial base around dairy. - Quality is the central hurdle and the central advantage. Consumer expectations are already shaped by international brands, so local producers have to match that benchmark. - The focus on agriculture signals that manufacturing growth depends on upstream investment, not just factory expansion. - OBG says the sector’s growth depends on interconnected investment in quality, technology and supply chain integration.

What's next: - More investment could expand training and employment opportunities in Libya’s dairy sector. - Continued support for cattle breeders may help raise domestic milk output. - Broader development across farming, processing and distribution could improve the sector’s long-term competitiveness.

The bottom line: - Libya’s dairy industry has a clear opening: build local supply chains, raise quality and capture demand now met by imports.