Libya’s state oil firm declared force majeure at Sharara oilfield

Libya’s National Oil Company (NOC) said on Monday it had declared force majeure on exports from Sharara oilfield – Libya’s largest – after the facility was seized by local protesters identifying themselves as Fezzan Rage Movement.

NOC said in a statement the shutdown of its biggest oilfield would result in a production loss of 315,000 barrels per day (bpd) at the site, and an additional loss of 73,000 bpd at the El Feel oilfield.

Production at the Zawiya refinery was also at risk due to its dependence on crude oil supply from Sharara, the company said.

“NOC demands that the group leave the oilfield immediately without pre-condition,” the statement said. It said it was “reviewing” evacuation plans but did not say whether staff had actually left the site.