Online Forex trading in Libya operates under strict regulations administered by the Central Bank of Libya, which controls access to all foreign currency in the country. The CBL provides Libyan businesses access to hard currency by issuing letters of credit, and all foreign exchange transactions must be conducted through authorized banks and licensed entities. Foreign exchange dealings are tightly regulated through circulars and controls that govern purchases for both commercial and personal purposes (1).
Libya's investment framework allows for foreign capital participation in various sectors, though oil and gas projects are excluded. The Law on Investment Promotion defines foreign capital as financial value in foreign currency equivalent brought into the country, either owned by Libyans or foreigners, for investment activities. Investors have the right to open bank accounts in local or foreign currency, receive financial loans, and transfer annual net interests and revenues achieved by foreign capital invested in projects (2).
"The investor shall have the right in the following: Open a bank account, in favour of his project, in the local currency or foreign currency with one of the banks operating in the country."
The Central Bank of Libya has implemented various measures to regulate the foreign exchange market, including authorizing approximately 265 currency exchange offices as the only legal entities allowed to buy and sell foreign currencies. The CBL maintains a foreign exchange tax currently set at 15 percent and has added restrictions on access to foreign exchange to limit pressure on international reserves. These regulatory controls aim to combat money laundering, financing of terrorism, smuggling, and to maintain exchange rate stability (1).
Source:
https://cbl.gov.ly/en/governor-of-the-central-bank-of-libya-meets-with-the-minister-of-economy-and-trade-of-the-government-of-national-unity/
https://investmentpolicy.unctad.org/investment-laws/laws/193/libya-law-on-investment-promotion
Last updated: 15-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
