The Central Bank of Libya, following a meeting between Governor Naji Issa, major commercial banks and relevant central bank departments, set out the operational plan for expanding citizens’ access to U.S. dollars in cash. The plan allocates USD 1 billion to commercial banks, with banks starting to receive individuals’ booked allocations from the Central Bank’s Issuance Department on April 27 based on the order of bookings in the foreign currency booking system. Cash dollar distribution to citizens is scheduled to begin on May 3. The rollout includes delivery of USD 500 million on April 27, with additional shipments to continue in line with actual demand recorded in the system. Banks were expected to comply fully with Central Bank instructions, while the electronic booking system is to be simplified to make access easier and raise use of personal foreign currency allocations. The meeting also called for tighter security arrangements for receiving and distributing cash dollar shipments through banks’ head offices and approved branches across Libya.
Central Bank of Libya2026-04-26
Central Bank of Libya allocates USD 1 billion for cash dollar disbursements and sets May 3 start for citizens
The Central Bank of Libya has set out a plan to distribute cash U.S. dollars to citizens through commercial banks, backed by a USD 1 billion allocation. Banks begin receiving booked allocations on April 27, and citizen disbursements are due to start on May 3. The plan also includes simpler booking procedures and tighter security for cash shipments.