By Libya Herald staff.
Tripoli, 15 December 2013:
Italian exports to Libya have trebled since the revolution and could grow a great deal . . .[restrict]more, despite current troubles, said an Italian employers’ chief in Rome.
“Libya holds a great deal of potential for Italy at a national level despite the currently bleak situation”, said Aurelio Regina, deputy chairman of the Confederation of Italian Industry (Confindustria).
Speaking to the Rome Chamber of Commerce on Friday, Regina said that Italy had to export to survive and Libya was an important market, where since the Revolution, sales had increased 300 percent, reaching €2.4 billion in 2012.
“We are the main benchmark market for the North African country,’ said Regina, “and almost 23% of Libya’s exports are earmarked for Italy. Of course our businesses need security guarantees, but there are many opportunities for us.”
Italy he said was the major player in Libya’s oil and gas sector where there were concerns over the sharp fall in production. Nevertheless, he said, “ there are opportunities for Italian businesses in renewable energy, agro-industry, construction, logistics, transport, integrated services and infrastructure.”
Regina warned however that in Libya, ”Italy has a very delicate task. Politics and the economy can and must go hand in hand”, he said. Libya was decisive for the security of the entire area but guarantees, stability and development were essential.
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