Libya’s wheat import bill exceeds global average by 470% — study

Economic researcher Dr. Awse Rages revealed that Libya’s spending on wheat imports significantly exceeds the population’s actual needs, reaching 470% above the global average. According to his analysis, official figures on consumption and import costs show a clear imbalance between real demand and recorded expenditures.

In 2025, Libya reportedly imported wheat worth approximately $910 million. At the same time, based on the global average consumption of about 67 kg per person per year, the country’s population of 8 million would require around 536,000 tons of wheat annually.

Even at a relatively high market price of $300 per ton, the logical cost of covering this need would be only about $160 million. This leaves a discrepancy of over $750 million, raising serious questions about the allocation and use of these funds.

Official records suggest that, on paper, a Libyan citizen consumes around 380 kg of wheat per year—more than five times the global average. Experts say these figures highlight potential issues with subsidies, smuggling, and the efficiency of financial management amid the country’s economic challenges.

Tags: wheat, imports, Libia