Libya Terminal Specs: Benghazi, Misrata & Tripoli (2026)

Navigating Regulatory Bottlenecks and Infrastructure Modernization in North Africa.

Shipping to Libya in 2026 requires more than technical data; it requires a deep understanding of the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) documentary credit system and the newly mandatory Advance Cargo Information (ACI) protocols. While infrastructure modernization is underway, specifically in Misrata, operational success still hinges on choosing the right berth for the right vessel.

1. Misrata Port (Qasr Ahmed)

The 2026 Mediterranean Logistics Hub Misrata has emerged as Libya’s most efficient and modern port, recently benefiting from a $2.7 billion strategic expansion involving international partners like MSC.

Technical Specifications

  • Max Draft: 11.5 Meters (Berths 12–19) | 13.0 Meters (Deep-water expansion zone).

  • Max LOA: 190 Meters (Standard) | Up to 250 Meters in the new container terminal.

  • Infrastructure: 11 berths with a total length of 3,550m. The port features the most reliable shore-side gantry cranes in Libya, though geared vessels are still recommended for general cargo to bypass terminal congestion.

  • Free Zone Advantage: Directly connected to the Misrata Free Zone (MFZ), offering streamlined customs for transshipment cargo moving toward the Sahel region.

2. Benghazi Port

Eastern Libya’s Primary Commercial Gateway Benghazi is a large-scale commercial hub capable of handling tankers, bulk, and Ro-Ro. It serves as the primary entry point for the reconstruction of Cyrenaica.

Technical Specifications

  • Max Draft: 8.53 Meters (General Cargo) | Up to 12.0 Meters at specialized deep-water berths (Pier No. 1 & 3).

  • Max LOA: 167.6 Meters.

  • Equipment: 2 floating cranes (80T capacity) and several 30T mobile cranes.

  • Security: ISPS Level 2. A new EU-funded Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Benghazi has significantly improved coastal monitoring as of 2026.

  • Restricted Zone Alert: Vessels must avoid the "Restricted Zone" between Benghazi and Derna without an explicit safe track line from coastal stations; unauthorized entry carries fines exceeding $50,000.

3. Tripoli Port

The Capital’s High-Volume Consumer Hub Despite urban constraints, Tripoli remains the highest-volume port for consumer goods and food imports for the western population.

Technical Specifications

  • Max Draft: 10.5 Meters.

  • Max LOA: 190 Meters.

  • Congestion Note: High. Expect 3–5 days waiting time for general cargo berths. Priority is given to vessels carrying grain and essential medical supplies.

The "ACI" & "CBL" Compliance Layer (2026 Mandatory)

To avoid vessel rejection or banking blocks, all cargo must adhere to the following:

1. Advance Cargo Information (ACI) Number

As of late 2024 (fully enforced in 2026), all importers and exporters must register at aci.customs.gov.ly.

  • A valid ACI Number must be generated before loading at the first load port.

  • The ACI number must be clearly stated on the Bill of Lading and manifest.

  • Vetting Note: Our desk verifies ACI validation before confirming any fixture.

2. Central Bank of Libya (CBL) Letters of Credit (LC)

CBL role in 2026 is strictly regulatory. LCs are processed based on legal/financial documents submitted to licensed commercial banks.

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  • Freight payments must be cleared through the CBL FX system to ensure legality.

  • SanctionedShipping.com provides the "Paper Trail" audit required by banks to release these funds for high-friction ports.

2026 Operational Security (ISPS & DOS)

  • Security Level 2: Automatically triggered for any vessel arriving from a conflict zone.

  • Declaration of Security (DOS): Must be completed upon arrival.

  • Underwater Hull Surveys: As of 2026, certain conflict-origin vessels may be required to undergo an underwater survey before entering territorial waters (12-mile limit).

Request a Libya Port Readiness Report

Before you commit to a laycan, get a real-time update on berth availability and ACI validation status.

Contact the Libya Intelligence Desk: Email: info@sanctionedshipping.com Subject: Libya Port Intel – [Benghazi / Misrata / Tripoli]