Libya's Ras Lanuf terminal under force majeure: Update

Includes possible FM of Es Sider, other information.

Libya's state-owned NOC has informed some customers of force majeure (FM) restrictions at the eastern Ras Lanuf crude export terminal, according to a trade and two Libyan sources. One Libyan source said the nearby Es Sider port was now also under FM.

An official notice for force majeure, which covers NOC for an inability to supply customers because of circumstances beyond its control, has yet to be circulated to all clients, traders said.

NOC said on 27 June that blockades at Ras Lanuf and at the Es Sider port could push it to declare force majeure in the Gulf of Sirte region, which covers both terminals, effective within 72 hours. Production at the Waha Oil company, which feeds into the Es Sider export grade, had been completely disrupted as of the start of this week.

NOC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Export terminals Marsa el-Brega and Zueitina have been under force majeure since the second half of April because of protests. Demonstrators have threatened but are yet to implement closures at the Marsa el-Hariga port.

By Ruxandra Iordache