Libya declares force majeure at oil ports

21 August 2013

NOC closes four terminals due to strikes by security guards

Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) has issued a force majeure declaration on crude and refined product exports from four export terminals in the wake of ongoing industrial action at its ports.

The El-Sider, Ras Lanuf, Zueitina and Brega terminals have all been affected, according to the US’ Bloomberg, which cites NOC documents signed by the firm’s chairman, Nuri Berruien, on 18 August.

The documents say the terminals have been closed due to strikes by oil security guards at the sites since the end of July.

NOC informed its customers earlier in August that it could not guarantee oil deliveries for September.

Libyan crude exports have now fallen to less than 500,000 barrels a day (b/d) from other ports and offshore loading terminals at Mellitah. The Hariga oil terminal is expected to resume exports of about 180,000 b/d before the end of the week.

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