Libya is an oil-rich country, but it imports most of its fuel needs because its small local refineries do not produce enough to meet local needs. Instead of direct support, the government in Tripoli sells imported fuel at heavily subsidized prices.
Gasoline is often sold at a discount of up to 90% from the market price. Officials say that up to 40% of imported fuel - worth billions - is then re-exported and smuggled out of the country to make a profit.