Libya: Introduction

Libya is a country located in North Africa. Bordering the Mediterranean Sea, Libya is surrounded by Egypt, Sudan, Chad, Niger, Algeria, and Tunisia. More than 90% of the country is desert or semi-desert, and there are limited natural freshwater resources. The government system is in a state of transition; the chief of state is the president of the General National Congress, and the head of government is the prime minister. Libya is transitioning to a more market-based economy in which the prices of goods and services are determined in a free price system. Libya is a member of the League of Arab States (Arab League) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).