Liberian importers petition legislature over shipping delays
Business owners face seven-month cargo delays and rising port fees, petitioning for intervention.
Liberian business owners and importers gathered Tuesday at the Capitol Building in Monrovia to petition the Legislature and the National Port Authority over severe shipping delays and increased port fees. The groups, including China Business Women United with One Voice and the Consortium of Liberia Importers, are demanding urgent intervention as cargo shipments from Asia now take six to seven months to reach the Freeport of Monrovia.
Advocate Sriya Musu Momolu stated that these prolonged shipping timelines and unfair fees are pushing local enterprises to the brink of collapse. Businesses relying on bank loans fear losing personal homes and properties due to accumulating interest rates caused by the delays. The petition highlights that Delivery Orders arbitrarily expire before cargo can be retrieved, forcing owners to pay costly renewal fees and demurrage charges for delays beyond their control.
The House of Representatives has summoned key maritime and shipping stakeholders for a hearing on Friday, November 6, following the protest. Importers are also complaining about administrative surcharges and double taxation, as loan interest accumulates while they must still meet tax obligations to the Liberia Revenue Authority and pay salaries.
Why it mattersLiberian importers are facing financial distress and potential loss of property due to extended shipping delays and excessive port charges.