China’s SINOTRUK, China’s largest heavy-duty truck manufacturer, officially entered the Libyan market on 17 September 2025, through a new partnership with Benghazi-based Aseel Auto Import Company.
The collaboration, announced during the opening of Aseel Auto’s first branch in Benghazi, appoints the company as SINOTRUK’s exclusive distributor in Libya, marking a significant step in the truck maker’s Africa expansion strategy.
Expansion of SINOTRUK in Africa
Founded in 1956, SINOTRUK has grown into a global name in the truck industry, producing vehicles for construction, mining, logistics, and transportation. Its subsidiary, Sinotruk (Hong Kong) Limited, has been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 2007. Over the years, the company has steadily expanded across Africa, setting up branches and agencies in Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana.
The move into Libya aligns with these expansion plans, underscoring China’s wider economic presence on the continent. By appointing Aseel Auto as its sole distributor, SINOTRUK aims to make its vehicles and services more accessible to Libyan businesses engaged in infrastructure development, transport, and reconstruction projects. This partnership is expected to strengthen the supply of heavy-duty trucks in a market steadily rebuilding its economy.
Benghazi launch and Aseel Auto’s role
The announcement was made during the launch of Aseel Auto Import Company’s first-ever branch in Benghazi. Although details of the ceremony remain limited, the event marked a strategic entry point for the Chinese truck maker and its Libyan partner.
As a relatively new player in Libya’s automotive sector, Aseel Auto will now play a key role in bridging demand for durable, high-capacity vehicles. The exclusive distributorship positions the company as a central supplier for businesses in construction, logistics, and other industries that require reliable transport solutions.
With this partnership, Aseel Auto is expected to improve local availability of SINOTRUK trucks And related services. This move is also seen as an opportunity to support Libya’s ongoing infrastructure and economic recovery by providing access to advanced Chinese vehicle technology.
Strengthening China–Libya trade relations
Beyond its immediate impact on the trucking industry, the deal also highlights strengthening economic ties between China and Libya. Chinese companies have been steadily deepening their footprint in Africa through energy, transport, and infrastructure investments. For Libya, which continues to work on rebuilding its economy, such partnerships could provide a needed boost to both local businesses and wider development efforts.
While no specific truck models or future sales targets have been disclosed, the partnership signals long-term intentions. Observers expect SINOTRUK, through Aseel Auto, to expand into other Libyan cities in the future, providing more businesses with access to vehicles designed for Africa’s growing infrastructure demands.
As SINOTRUK adds Libya to its African presence alongside Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana, the move underscores how Chinese heavy-duty trucks are steadily gaining ground across the continent—reshaping logistics, construction, and trade.