IMF-利比亚能源补贴改革：利比亚（英）

Energy Subsidy Reform in Libya Mona ElShazly SIP/2025/094 IMF Selected Issues Papers are prepared by IMF staff as background documentation for periodic consultations with member countries. It is based on the information available at the time it was completed on May 30, 2025. This paper is also published separately as IMF Country Report No 25/149. 2025 JUL © 2025 International Monetary Fund SIP/2025/094 IMF Selected Issues Paper Middle East and Central Asia Department Energy Subsidy Reform in Libya Prepared by Mona ElShazly* Authorized for distribution by Dmitry Gershenson July 2025 IMF Selected Issues Papers are prepared by IMF staff as background documentation for periodic consultations with member countries. It is based on the information available at the time it was completed on May 30, 2025. This paper is also published separately as IMF Country Report No 25/149. ABSTRACT: Energy subsidies have become a significant burden on government finances in Libya. The pervasive nature of subsidies has led to rampant corruption, smuggling, and a diversion of resources from essential public services. The paper identifies key barriers to reform, including opposition from vested interest groups and public apprehension regarding inflation and welfare loss. To address these challenges, a strategic reform plan is proposed, emphasizing a phased approach, a comprehensive communication plan and social protection measures to mitigate the adverse effects of subsidy removal. By taking these steps, Libya can transition towards a more sustainable framework that supports macroeconomic stability. RECOMMENDED CITATION: ElShazly, M. (2025) “Energy Subsidy Reform in Libya.” IMF Selected Issues Paper, Middle East and Central Asia Department, SIP/2025/094. Washington, D.C.: International Monetary Fund. JEL Classification Numbers: Q31, Q38, Q41,Q43, Q48, E62, H23, O13 Keywords: Libya, Smuggling, Energy Subsidies, Fuel Prices, Gasoline, Diesel, Oil, Electricity, Subsidy Reform, Collection System, Communication, Gradual Phasing, Mitigation Plan. Author’s E-Mail Address: melshazly@imf.org SELECTED ISSUES PAPERS Energy Subsidy Reform in Libya Libya Prepared by Mona ElShazly11 The author would like to thank Dmitry Gershenson and Subir Lall for their support and valuable comments as well as the Libyan authorities for the constructive discussions and useful feedback. LIBYA ENERGY SUBSIDY REFORM IN LIBYA A.Introduction1. Energy subsidies in Libya are extremely generous and poorly targeted. Given Libya'ssubstantial oil wealth, the government has historically provided fuel subsidies as a form ofredistribution, effectively allowing citizens to benefit from the country's rich natural resources.However, fuel prices have not changed since the 1970s, making the price of gasoline in Libyacurrently the lowest in the world. Although designed to protect citizens, subsidies are typicallyregressive and primarily benefit the wealthier segments of the populations. Libya's fuel subsidy hasbeen cos