NPA & PARTNERS HOLD HIGH-LEVEL STAKEHOLDERS MEETING TO STREAMLINE TARIFFS AND ENHANCE TRADE
The National Port Authority (NPA), in collaboration with its implementing partners, convened a high-level Stakeholders Working Session today, aimed at streamlining tariffs at Liberia’s primary port of entry, the Freeport of Monrovia. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), the Brokers Association, CTN, MedTech, the Rice Importers Association, and other relevant government agencies and business representatives.
In a brief remarks, NPA Managing Director Hon. Sekou A. M. Dukuly emphasized the critical need for enhanced collaboration in facilitating the efficient movement of goods and services, boosting trade, and promoting economic growth within Liberia and across the West African region. He underscored the NPA’s commitment to simplifying trade procedures, promoting transparency, and leveraging digital technologies to address challenges and implement best practices that benefit all stakeholders and the general public.
The Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Hon. Augustine Ngafuan, who chaired the discussions, commended the NPA for convening the meeting. He highlighted the government’s ongoing engagements with the Chamber of Commerce and the business community to remove bottlenecks hindering trade. Minister Ngafuan reaffirmed his commitment to continuous stakeholder engagements and urged the business community to voice their concerns freely, assuring them that the government is determined to resolve trade impediments and create a more business-friendly environment.
Minister of Commerce and Industry, Hon. Marthaline Dagoseh, also expressed her Ministry’s commitment to addressing key trade-related concerns, including issues surrounding CTN and MedTech tariffs, which have been a major concern for the business community. She further stressed the need for an open dialogue on the APM Terminals tariff increases, emphasizing that a balanced resolution is necessary to sustain Liberia’s trade sector and ensure fair business practices.
Stakeholders raised concerns that container vessels are often prioritized over bulk cargo vessels, causing delays and financial losses for importers. It was noted that when container ships arrive in Liberian waters, other vessels already discharging cargo are sometimes asked to vacate the pier, further exacerbating logistical challenges for businesses and consumers.
The meeting served as a crucial platform for identifying key challenges, fostering open dialogue, and developing practical solutions to enhance trade efficiency, strengthen regulatory frameworks, and create a more transparent and predictable business environment at Liberia’s seaports.
The NPA and its partners reaffirm their commitment to engaging stakeholders regularly and implementing strategies that will enhance trade facilitation, improve port efficiency, and drive economic growth in Liberia.
Source : NPA
