Economy: 27 companies from one family arrested with loans exceeding $146 million

Tripoli, August 18, 2026 (LANA) – The Ministry of Economy and Trade of the Government of National Unity announced on Tuesday the suspension of the activities of 27 companies linked to three beneficiaries from the same family, with a total value of letters of credit exceeding $146 million.

The Ministry issued a decision to suspend the commercial activities of these 27 companies as part of a review of the status of companies benefiting from letters of credit and to verify their compliance with the regulations and procedures governing foreign trade.

According to the decision, the total value of the letters of credit under review reached approximately $146.7 million. These were obtained by the companies concerned during the first seven months of 2026 to finance imports and various economic activities. The credits were distributed among three main beneficiaries, identified only by their initials: (E.A.A.) with letters of credit worth approximately $79.0 million, (H.E.A.) with letters of credit worth approximately $52.2 million, and (A.A.A.) with letters of credit worth approximately $15.5 million.

The decision included suspending the commercial registration, importer registration, and licenses of the companies associated with the aforementioned beneficiaries until the completion of the examination and review process by the competent authorities, according to the Ministry.

The Ministry affirmed that these measures are part of its efforts to enhance transparency and governance and to monitor the movement of letters of credit granted to companies. This ensures the integrity of procedures and protects the national economy from any practices that may harm fair competition or affect the efficiency of foreign trade.

The Ministry of Economy emphasized that the decision is a precautionary and regulatory measure aimed at completing the verification of data and legal obligations of the companies covered by the decision. The final results will be announced after the completion of the review and audit by the relevant authorities, as part of the state's efforts to enhance compliance and improve oversight of trade and import activities.

...(LANA)...