Libya - Travel Report

Officially known as the Great Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Libya has a developing economy. The capital is Tripoli. Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of the country's customs, laws, and practices. The average GDP of Libya is $35 billion (2003 est.). The primary products of Libya are wheat, barely, olives, dates and citrus. The primary export partners of Libya are Italy, Germany, Spain, Turkey, France, Switzerland and Tunisia. The primary import partners are Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, Tunisia, France and South Korea. The predominant religion in Libya is Sunni Muslim, therefore, a majority of the population celebrates traditional Sunni Muslim holidays. United Nations sanctions on Libya were lifted on September 12, 2003. U.S. sanctions have been substantially eased. Libya's economy operates on a “cash-only" basis for most transactions, even though the use in Libya of credit cards and checks drawn on U.S. banks is now permitted. The Corinthia Bab Africa Hotel is the only business known to accept a credit card (Visa). ATM machines are non-existent. Foreign visitors should be aware that the penalties for use of unauthorized currency dealers are severe. Foreign visitors should also be aware that their passports might be confiscated in business disputes. There is a Sunday-Thursday workweek.