Libya's Ras Lanuf and Es Sider Ports Halt Oil Loadings Due to Protests

Protests have erupted in Libya calling for the cessation of oil loading activities at two key ports, Ras Lanuf and Es Sider. This decision has significant implications, threatening to impact the export of hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil from the country, a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

Understanding the Situation

Starting from Tuesday, the ports will cease their loading operations, as confirmed by sources familiar with the situation. Reports indicate that one tanker at the Es Sider port has already stopped the loading process. These two ports are located in eastern Libya, a region that accounts for a large portion of the nation's crude oil production.

Context of the Protests

This interruption is part of Libya's ongoing challenges in maintaining a stable oil production environment. Since the overthrow of long-time leader Moammar Al Qaddafi in 2011, the country has faced continuous unrest and disputes over power and control. Currently, Libya is divided between an internationally recognized government in the west and a rival authority based in the east, where military commander Khalifa Haftar holds influence.

Previous Actions and Future Risks

The protests in the Oil Crescent Region, which began earlier in January, were initiated by a group threatening to impede oil production and exports. They demand the transfer of five energy company headquarters to the eastern region from the west. This could affect around 1 million barrels per day of oil output from Libya, which the National Oil Corp. recently reported to be at 1.43 million barrels.

Additional Ports in the Region

In addition to Ras Lanuf and Es Sider, the eastern part of Libya is home to three other oil ports, further underscoring the critical role this area plays in the nation’s economy and oil output.

Libya, Oil, Protests