Shell signals interest in returning to Libya’s energy market

Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) and global energy company Shell have discussed developing a comprehensive strategy for the country’s gas sector, as the two sides seek to accelerate technical assessments and advance their existing cooperation agreements.

NOC Chairman Masoud Suleman Mousa met Shell’s vice-president for Iraq, the United Arab Emirates and Libya to review progress under memoranda of understanding signed by the two companies and discuss technical work being carried out in the fields and areas covered by the agreements.

The talks focused on drawing on Shell’s international expertise to help prepare a long-term strategy aimed at improving the efficiency of Libya’s gas industry and maximising the value of the country’s resources, the NOC said.

Suleman called for a clear timetable to complete evaluations of the fields and concession areas included in the agreements, allowing the two sides to move towards subsequent phases under defined implementation programmes.

Shell renewed its interest in returning to invest and operate in Libya and expressed its readiness to expand cooperation with the NOC and contribute to major projects supporting the development of the country’s energy sector.

The discussions build on cooperation arrangements announced in London in July 2025, under which Shell agreed to assess hydrocarbon potential and conduct technical and economic feasibility studies for the development of the Al-Atshan field and other assets wholly owned by the NOC.

Libya has been seeking to attract major international energy companies back to the country to develop existing fields, introduce advanced technology and increase oil and gas production after years of disruption.