South Africa imports nearly 1 million barrels of Libyan crude

South Africa imported nearly 1 million barrels of Libyan crude oil in September, marking only the second such transaction since 2013. Because South Africa lacks long-term contracts for Libyan crude, the shipment was likely acquired via the spot market or through local Libyan companies using agency-sale mechanisms.

This transaction reflects shifting trade flows within the African oil market. Supply disruptions in the Middle East, specifically involving the Iran War and the closure of the Hormuz Strait, have prompted some nations to seek less traditional suppliers. While African destinations like Nigeria, Egypt, and Tunisia have seen increased sales, Europe remains the primary market for Libyan crude. During the first nine months of 2026, four European countries accounted for approximately 65% of Libya’s seaborne exports, with Italy alone representing 41% of the total.