Shutting up shop: Libyan conflict squeezes southern Tunisia

SUMMARY

Conflict in Libya since the toppling of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011 has decimated business in Ben Guerdane, Tunisia. Around 700 stores have closed in the past eight years as supplies dwindled and prices soared, according to a local traders' association. The stalls' skeletal remains pockmark the town's streets -- rusting and buckled metal frames once heaving with goods for sale.

By ReutersJun 10, 2019 1:21:05 PM IST (Published)

A general view of the area near "Souk Libya" marketplace is seen empty and without vendors in the town of Ben Guerdane, near the Libyan border in Tunisia. REUTERS/Zoubeir Souissi/Files

A man fills a vehicle with gasoline in Ben Guerdane, near the Libyan border in Tunisia. REUTERS/Zoubeir Souissi/Files

Empty gasoline containers are seen in a store in Ben Guerdane, near the Libyan border in Tunisia. REUTERS/Zoubeir Souissi/Files

Containers of gasoline are seen in front of a shop in Ben Guerdane, near the Libyan border in Tunisia. REUTERS/Zoubeir Souissi/Files

A vendor waits for customers at the "Souk Libya" marketplace in the town of Ben Guerdane, near the Libyan border. REUTERS/Zoubeir Souissi/Files

A vendor displays clothing at the "Souk Libya" marketplace in the town of Ben Guerdane. REUTERS/Zoubeir Souissi/Files

Women walk near "Souk Libya" marketplace in the town of Ben Guerdane, near the Libyan border. REUTERS/Zoubeir Souissi/Files