Libya plans slow resumption of exports after surprise lifting of blockades

Crude oil exports are expected to resume within weeks following a deal between rebel federalists and the caretaker central government which allowed the lifting of force majeure at the Ras Lanuf and Sidra terminals on 6 July. Details of any commitments made by the government to the federalists have not yet been made public, so the full potential ramifications of the settlement are still unclear. However, in contrast to previous attempts to lift the blockades, this agreement has won the confidence both of industry sources within Tripoli and the international market.