Liberia port authority acts on congestion
National Port Authority announces direct Maersk shipping and extended hours to clear 700 stranded containers.
Liberia's National Port Authority (NPA) has announced new measures to tackle severe congestion and delays at the Freeport of Monrovia. NPA Managing Director Sekou A. Dukuly stated that approximately 700 containers have been stuck at the port for over 30 days, impacting businesses and maritime trade. The port is currently operating below its necessary capacity.
To ease the situation, shipping giant Maersk will now deliver vessels directly to Monrovia, reducing transit times and costs previously incurred through transshipment. The NPA also plans to clear the 700 stranded containers, suspend berth repairs to allow simultaneous vessel berthing, and extend port operating hours. Efforts are underway to grant additional free days for importers facing demurrage and storage fees.
APM Terminals Liberia reported that the average time containers remain at the terminal has risen from seven to eight days in 2025 to 15–16 days in 2026. The company is relocating containers and developing more stacking spaces. APM Terminals has invested $15 million in handling equipment and plans to acquire more machinery to support Liberia’s annual container traffic, which is approaching 200,000 20-foot equivalent units.
Why it mattersLiberian importers and businesses face mounting costs and prolonged shipping delays due to port congestion.