Oil and economic expert Abdulmonsef Al-Shalwi told Sada Economic exclusively that the inauguration of the Al-Rashad gas field, located south of the city of Brega, with a production capacity of up to 50 million cubic feet of gas per day, represents an important addition to Libya’s oil and gas production system. The project holds particular significance as it coincides with the 65th anniversary of the export of Libya’s first oil shipment, a date with deep national and economic significance.
He explained that the project’s true importance extends beyond the additional production volume. It also lies in its potential role in strengthening natural gas supplies, supporting the needs of power generation plants, and providing the energy inputs required for industrial activities, thereby contributing to supply stability and improving the efficiency of national resource utilization.
He added that a daily production capacity of 50 million cubic feet represents a significant economic asset, particularly if integrated into comprehensive planning that links production with consumption, prioritizes meeting domestic demand, limits waste, and maximizes the added value of hydrocarbon resources. Any sustained increase in domestic gas supplies could help ease the pressures associated with providing fuel to power plants and industries, depending on the system’s actual needs and the costs of available alternatives.
He noted that the next phase requires building on this achievement by continuing exploration and development activities, improving the efficiency of existing fields, accelerating the development of discoveries that can be brought into production, and upgrading the infrastructure needed to gather, process, and transport gas. He also highlighted the importance of directing investment toward projects that deliver clear economic returns, support sustainable production, and reduce gas flaring or waste wherever technically and economically feasible.
He stressed that Libya’s oil and gas sector remains a fundamental pillar of the national economy. However, maximizing its contribution requires a gradual shift away from a primary focus on crude oil production and exports toward more integrated resource management that makes use of gas in electricity generation and industry, supports the expansion of downstream industries, and increases the economic value derived from each unit of the country’s natural resources.
He concluded by emphasizing that the inauguration of the Al-Rashad gas field on this national occasion sends an important message: Libya’s true wealth lies not only in its natural resources, but also in its ability to develop and manage them efficiently and transform them into tangible benefits for citizens and the economy.
On this occasion, he expressed appreciation for all national, technical, and engineering personnel who continue to work at production sites, as well as everyone employed in the oil and gas sector who contributes through their efforts to preserving and developing this wealth in the interests of Libya and future generations.
