A consequence of the international embargo of Libya has been improved trade relations with other countries like China. Output includes wheat, barley, olives and dates. Of livestock, sheep is dominating, counting about 5,6 million. The most important region for agriculture in Libya is in Tripolitania, but with the construction of the Great Man-Made River, eastern provinces are projected to have increased agricultural output in the years to come. Fishing is of relatively little importance, and is no bigger than 33,7 tons in 1996, including tuna and sardines.
Sponges are also of some importance.
The yearly output of petroleum in Libya exceeds 500 million barrels per year, while the amount of natural gas was at the level of 10,3 billion m . Libya has a large production of refined products, petrochemicals and construction materials.