The following information on processes for importing humanitarian cargo into areas of eastern Libya controlled by the Transitional National Council (TNC) was obtained from the TNC and humanitarian organisations. Although all efforts have been made to ensure that the content of this brief is accurate, the situation in Libya is constantly changing and it is always recommended to seek direct advice from the authorities in the area into which you wish to import. Amendments to this brief will be made as new information becomes available.
Importing by Road
The TNC Humanitarian Committee has recommended that humanitarian organizations that intend to import items by road into areas of Libya under their control should contact them at least 24 hours prior to crossing the border. The TNC has also advised that organisations wishing to bring in special cargo such as armored cars, personal protection equipment, etc., require a letter from the TNC authorizing the import.
Since 16 April, there have been two unconfirmed reports of humanitarian organisations’ vehicles being stopped for registration by TNC in Tobruq. TNC has also begun stamping passports upon entry at the Salloum border. Given the fluid situation on the ground, organisations are encouraged to check for updated information prior to sending trucks along the Salloum - Tobruq route.
Importing by Air
On 16 April, the TNC Humanitarian Committee and the TNC Benghazi Airport Committee described the procedures for importing relief cargo by air to Benghazi as follows:
• Send an email to the TNC Humanitarian Committee and Airport Committee focal points at least 24 hours before the flight is expected at the airport. Include the following details in the email: flight arrival time, aircraft details, cargo offload requirements, designated trucks which will unload the cargo (include number plates if possible), consignee, type of cargo and amount of cargo.
• Follow-up with the Humanitarian Committee by phone to confirm receipt of the email.
• The Humanitarian Committee will then reply to the email confirming clearance for the items.
Importing by Sea
The TNC has created a Maritime Temporary Authority and has requested organisations to coordinate with this body if they have any requirements in relation to ports under their control. The procedure is as follows:
• Send an email to the focal point for the Maritime Temporary Authority copying the TNC Humanitarian Committee, at least 24 hours before the ship is expected at the port. Include the following details in the email: boat arrival time, boat details, cargo offload requirements, designated trucks (include number plates if possible), consignee, type of cargo and amount of cargo.
• The TNC has advised that organisations wishing to bring in special cargo such as armored cars, personal protection equipment, etc., require a letter from the TNC authorizing the import.