Misrata Chamber Looks to Strengthen Regional Trade at Tunisia Investment Forum
The Misrata Chamber of Commerce took part in the 22nd Tunisia Investment Forum (TIF 2026) in Tunis this week, highlighting Libya’s growing interest in expanding regional trade, attracting investment, and building stronger economic partnerships across North Africa.
The Libyan delegation included Misrata Chamber of Commerce Chairman Fathi Al-Amin Al-Turki and Director General Abubakr Abdulbari Shanab. During the two-day event, they joined government officials, investors, business leaders, and financial institutions from more than 30 countries to discuss investment opportunities and regional economic cooperation.
The Tunisia Investment Forum has become one of North Africa’s leading business events. Organized by Tunisia’s Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (FIPA) under the Ministry of Economy and Planning, this year’s edition focused on economic reforms, industrial development, sustainability, and strengthening Tunisia’s position as a gateway to African markets. The forum also featured sector-specific workshops and business-to-business meetings designed to connect investors with commercial partners.
For Libya, participation carries significance beyond attendance at another regional conference. As oil production continues to recover and economic activity gradually improves, chambers of commerce have started to place greater emphasis on private-sector cooperation with neighboring countries. Tunisia remains one of Libya’s closest economic partners due to geographic proximity, established trade routes, and long-standing commercial ties.
Misrata has traditionally played a central role in Libya’s private sector. Its commercial port, industrial base, and manufacturing sector make the city one of the country’s most important economic hubs. Stronger business links with Tunisia could support cross-border trade, logistics, tourism, construction, and industrial supply chains while creating new opportunities for Libyan companies seeking regional partnerships.
The forum also offered Libyan representatives the opportunity to monitor broader investment trends across North Africa. International investors increasingly evaluate regional markets rather than individual countries, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, transport infrastructure, agribusiness, and digital services. Understanding these trends can help Libyan businesses position themselves more competitively as the country’s investment climate gradually improves.
Business-to-business meetings formed an important part of the event. These sessions allow companies to establish direct commercial contacts that often lead to trade agreements, joint ventures, or future investment discussions. While no major agreements involving the Misrata Chamber were announced during the forum, participation itself helps maintain Libya’s visibility within regional business networks.
Regional cooperation gains momentum
Economic engagement between Libya and its regional partners has accelerated over the past year. Alongside renewed discussions with European investors and growing interest from international companies, North African cooperation continues to provide practical opportunities that require fewer logistical barriers than more distant markets.
Tunisia remains an important commercial partner for Libyan businesses. Cross-border trade supports thousands of companies on both sides of the border, while Tunis continues to host regional business events that attract investors looking at opportunities across Africa and the Mediterranean.
For Libya, strengthening these commercial relationships could support efforts to diversify the economy beyond hydrocarbons. Although oil will remain the country’s dominant source of revenue, expanding private-sector trade, manufacturing, logistics, and services will play an increasingly important role in creating sustainable economic growth.
The Misrata Chamber’s participation at TIF 2026 reflects this broader strategy. By engaging with regional investors and monitoring emerging investment trends, Libya’s private sector continues to position itself for greater integration into North African and Mediterranean markets as economic conditions stabilize.
