Tripoli, January 1, 2026 – The head of the Government of National Unity emphasized taking strict measures against monopolists and price manipulators, with no leniency towards any practices that harm citizens’ livelihoods or affect market stability, confirming that price control and consumer protection are the government’s top priority.

This came during the expanded meeting held today, Thursday, to follow up on the general price level in the Libyan market, the economic conditions, and their direct impact on citizens’ lives.

The head of the government directed intensifying field visits to markets and enhancing coordination between the Ministry of Economy, the Municipal Guard apparatus, and relevant authorities to monitor the path of goods from entry points to points of sale and ensure merchants’ compliance with approved prices.

The meeting discussed the value of open credits for importing essential goods and their impact on the availability of goods in markets and ensuring price stability, in addition to discussing challenges related to supply and distribution chains and ways to address them to maintain balance in the local market.

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Tripoli

Tripoli is the capital and largest city of Libya, located on the country’s Mediterranean coast. Historically, it was founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC and has since been ruled by the Romans, Arabs, Ottomans, and Italians, which is reflected in its diverse architecture, such as the ancient Red Castle (Assaraya al-Hamra) and the old medina. Today, it serves as Libya’s major political, economic, and cultural center.

Government of National Unity

The « Government of National Unity » (GNU) is not a specific place or cultural site, but a political term for a coalition government formed by rival parties, typically after a conflict or crisis. A prominent historical example is South Africa’s first post-apartheid government (1994), led by Nelson Mandela, which brought the African National Congress together with former opponents to oversee the transition to democracy. Such governments are formed to promote stability and reconciliation during critical periods in a nation’s history.

Libyan market

The Libyan market, often referring to the historic souks found in cities like Tripoli and Benghazi, has served for centuries as a vital hub of commerce and social life along Mediterranean and trans-Saharan trade routes. These traditional marketplaces, with their labyrinthine alleys, are known for goods ranging from spices and textiles to handicrafts, reflecting Libya’s diverse cultural influences from Berber, Arab, Ottoman, and Italian histories. While modern developments and recent conflicts have impacted them, these markets remain important symbols of Libya’s mercantile heritage and community identity.

Ministry of Economy

The Ministry of Economy is a government department responsible for a nation’s economic policy, industrial strategy, and often trade. Its specific history varies by country, but such ministries were typically established or significantly reformed in the 20th century to guide national economic development, especially following events like the Great Depression or post-war reconstruction. Today, it focuses on fostering growth, competitiveness, and stability within the global market.

Municipal Guard apparatus

The Municipal Guard apparatus refers to the organized police or security forces established by local governments, particularly in Portuguese-speaking countries like Portugal and Brazil, during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Historically, these forces were created to maintain public order and enforce municipal laws, often evolving from earlier militias and later being integrated into national police structures.