China ready to buy more Liberian farm goods
Beijing also pledges investment in processing to create jobs and boost local value.
China has signaled its readiness to increase imports of agricultural products from Liberia, including cocoa, coffee, and dried chili peppers. Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang conveyed this commitment to Liberia’s Vice President Jeremiah Koung in Shanghai on November 5. The next step involves Liberian exporting companies submitting applications for approval to access the Chinese market.
Vice Premier Ding stated that agricultural products from African nations, including Liberia, already have market access. He encouraged Liberia to submit a list of interested companies for the necessary approval procedures. Vice President Koung welcomed the opportunity, highlighting rubber, cocoa, and coffee as priority areas for expanded trade. He emphasized Liberia's desire for foreign investment to support domestic processing, skills development, and job creation.
Vice President Koung invited Chinese businesses to invest in Liberia’s special economic zones, particularly in rubber and agro-processing. Vice Premier Ding affirmed China's encouragement for Chinese companies to invest in Liberia and pledged continued support for development projects. These include infrastructure, technical assistance, and scholarships for Liberians.
Why it mattersLiberian farmers and businesses can increase exports and create jobs through domestic processing.