Malta-Libya Shopping Festival planned

The Libyan and Maltese authorities are discussing a proposal by the Libyan-Maltese Chamber of Commerce to fix the rate of customs duty payable by Maltese companies for goods imported into Libya for the Malta-Libya Shopping Festival at 10 per cent, which is a reduced rate.

If accepted, the proposal will be applied on a bilateral basis, since the chamber will also be organising a Libyan Shopping Festival in Malta on the same lines as the one happening in November at the Tripoli International Fair Grounds from November 20 to 29.

The spokesman said that decisions over the proposal for reduced customs duty are expected to be taken during the next meeting of the Malta/Libya Mixed Commission in Tripoli in the near future.

Meanwhile, preparations for the festival are now in full swing and the chamber is presently concluding talks with Libyan authorities for the approval of all permits needed to hold the festival.

The spokesman said the chamber has already received a considerable number of inquiries from Maltese companies to take part in the festival, which is considered as a unique opportunity for Maltese businessmen to obtain first hand reactions from the Libyan consumer regarding their products.

The festival, which is being organised during the holy month of Ramadan, will also include a sales area for Malta-made goods or goods from Maltese companies which hold exclusive distributor rights for the Libyan market.

The festival will also feature local folklore and art.

Further information may be obtained from the Libyan-Malta Chamber of Commerce on 21333666, fax 21332734 or from the sales agents 21412807, 21413893, 21417428.