The Competition Council calls on the Audit Bureau to conduct a comprehensive review of fuel import contracts

Tripoli, February 23, 2026 (LANA) – The Competition and Anti-Monopoly Council addressed the head of the Audit Bureau, requesting an urgent and comprehensive audit of fuel supply and distribution chains and energy subsidy mechanisms. This request stems from indications of competitive distortions that have harmed consumers and negatively impacted market efficiency and the national economy.

In a statement issued by its chairman, Salama Al-Ghawil, the Council explained that published estimates indicate the energy subsidy bill will reach approximately $17 billion in 2024. This has created significant price discrepancies between the local and regional markets, fostering incentives for illicit profiteering from these subsidies. Official estimates also suggest that up to 30 percent of imported fuel may be smuggled, representing substantial financial leakage that supports illegal activities and weakens legitimate distribution channels.

The Council emphasized the need to reconcile import, storage, and distribution figures with actual domestic consumption and to investigate leakage points and control centers that could be exploited to restrict competition or monopolize vital market segments.

He called for a special and urgent review of fuel import contracts for the years 2024, 2025, and beyond, encompassing quantities, prices, delivery terms, shipping routes, insurance, and payment mechanisms. This review should also include the local distribution chain, allocation systems, and tracking mechanisms. He further called for a quantitative and financial reconciliation between the quantities imported and actually received at ports, the quantities distributed through official channels, and estimated consumption, identifying the extent of losses, their causes, and the associated responsibilities.

The Council emphasized the importance of assessing adherence to the principles of transparency, equal opportunity, and the prevention of monopolies in supply and distribution procedures. It also called for practical recommendations to ensure competitive and auditable contracts, control leakage, and prevent any arrangements that lead to market dominance.

The Council requested preliminary findings within 30 days, along with the designation of a contact person for technical coordination and data exchange. This would enable the Council to take necessary actions within its jurisdiction and refer any suspicions to the appropriate authorities.

...(LANA)...