Monrovia, Liberia—A high-level stakeholder discussion on investment incentives and tariff exemptions, two significant factors affecting the growth of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Liberia, has been proposed by the Liberia Special Economic Zones Authority (LSEZA).
The Ministry of National Defense, the National Port Authority (NPA), the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), and private security actors, all crucial to the establishment and effective operation of SEZs in Liberia, were among the significant organizations and stakeholders gathered for the discussion.
Speaking at the meeting, LSEZA Executive Chairman Prince Wreh characterized the working session as a crucial step toward improving security coordination within the economic zones, fortifying Liberia’s tax incentive regime, and making sure that each participating institution is aware of and complies with its specific legal mandate.
Customs Commissioner Saa Samoi reiterated the LRA’s dedication to working with LSEZA to guarantee the efficient implementation and upkeep of customs functions, including security controls and trade facilitation measures. It is reported that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was previously signed by the LRA and LSEZA with the goal of advancing and defining trade facilitation measures to improve oversight and control in regional and global trade corridors.
James Bernard, the NPA’s Deputy Director for Port Operations, promised that the NPA would be happy to collaborate closely with LSEZA, especially in order to facilitate security access and operational coordination for employees and operators inside the economic zones. In order to strengthen institutional cooperation, he also suggested that the NPA and LSEZA sign a formal MOU akin to the one now in place between LSEZA and the LRA.
Assistant Public Affairs Minister Oscar Mulbah, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of National Defense, reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Liberia’s support and dedication to collaborating with LSEZA in carrying out its purpose under the nation’s free zone framework.
At the meeting’s conclusion, all participants reiterated their dedication to strengthening interagency cooperation, enhancing security coordination through established protocols, and supporting LSEZA’s mandate to draw investment, identify and license economic zones, and advance sustainable economic development in Liberia.
The Liberia Special Economic Zones Authority (LSEZA) is the statutory body responsible for designating, promoting, developing, and managing Special Economic Zones across Liberia to drive industrialization, attract foreign investment, and create sustainable jobs.
