Sulzer expands into Libya with JV to localize rotating equipment services

Swiss engineering company Sulzer has entered the Libyan market through a joint venture with Jawaby Services & Investments Ltd (JSIL), a subsidiary of National Oil Corporation, to deliver localized rotating equipment services for the country’s energy and industrial sectors.

The newly formed entity, Jawaby Sulzer Services, will establish an in-country service facility and operational headquarters in the Misrata Free Zone near Tripoli. The venture is aimed at providing maintenance, repair and rehabilitation services for critical equipment used in oil and gas production, power generation and industrial operations.

Sulzer said it is the first international provider to establish in-country rotating equipment services in Libya. (Image: Sulzer)

The agreement marks Sulzer’s first such international service presence in Libya and is expected to introduce OEM-grade capabilities within the country for the first time. The JV combines Sulzer’s global expertise in turbomachinery services with JSIL’s local market access and infrastructure.

Historically, Libyan operators have relied on sending key assets—including pumps, compressors, gas and steam turbines, motors and generators—abroad for major overhauls. This approach has contributed to longer turnaround times and increased operational risks.

Jawaby Sulzer Services is designed to address that gap by enabling in-country servicing aligned with international standards, potentially reducing downtime and improving asset reliability across Libya’s energy infrastructure.

Alex Myers, regional president for India, Middle East and CIS at Sulzer Services, said the venture strengthens the company’s regional footprint while responding to growing upstream investment in Libya.

“Operators need dependable, locally delivered expertise to keep complex rotating equipment running safely and efficiently,” Myers said. “This joint venture ensures that international standards and technical depth are now embedded within Libya’s energy sector.”

Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim ElBadri, executive manager of JSIL, said the partnership supports broader localization goals by developing domestic capabilities and workforce skills.

“Our partnership brings together JSIL’s strong local presence and Sulzer’s global expertise to deliver reliable, high-quality turbomachinery services inside Libya,” ElBadri said. “It supports the development of local suppliers and ensures critical expertise is retained within the country.”

Sulzer, headquartered in Winterthur, Switzerland, provides equipment and services for energy, water and process industries, with a global network of manufacturing and service facilities supporting customers across critical infrastructure sectors.