Executive Mansion, Monrovia - President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has issued Executive Order No. 156, extending the provisions of Executive Order No. 135, which established protective and stimulative measures for local manufacturing in Liberia.

The renewal of this Executive Order underscores the Government’s unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable economic growth, creating jobs, and protecting domestic industries from unfair competition posed by imported goods that are locally produced.

Executive Order No. 156, issued under the authority granted by the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia, introduces updated Local Industry Development Surcharges on selected imported products that threaten the viability of Liberian manufacturing. The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) has been mandated to disseminate the applicable rates and affected product categories to all relevant stakeholders.

Among the listed items subject to the surcharge are flour, biscuits, soap, tissue, soft drinks, and metal products, among others. These measures are designed to create a level playing field for Liberian manufacturers, strengthen local value chains, and encourage reinvestment in domestic production.

The President emphasized that this action aligns with Pillar One of the ARREST Agenda, which prioritizes Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism, as part of the administration’s strategy to stimulate employment and enhance national competitiveness.

President Boakai highlighted his administration’s belief that “Liberia’s prosperity depends on Liberians producing what they consume and adding value to what they export.” The Executive Order therefore seeks to consolidate the gains made under Executive Order No. 135 while addressing current economic realities facing local producers.
Executive Order No. 156 takes immediate effect.