By Grace Q. Bryant
A coalition of local business owners, operating under the name Concerned Liberian Businessmen and Women, has formally petitioned the 55th Legislature, demanding immediate action to curb the influx of substandard building materials into the country.
The group warns that these poor-quality materials, particularly steel rods, pose a major risk to public safety and hinder Liberia’s infrastructure development.
In a petition presented to lawmakers, the Spokesperson Sam Freeman, expressed deep concerns over the monopoly of foreign entities in Liberia’s building materials sector, with particular emphasis on Sethi Brothers Incorporated.
He accused the company of controlling the steel rod market, driving local businesses out, inflating prices, and supplying materials that do not meet quality and safety standards.
The petition outlines urgent recommendations aimed at addressing the issue, including, the implementation and enforcing quality and safety standards for steel rods and other construction materials, conducting frequent audits of manufacturing plants to prevent the sale of substandard products.
The petition further recommended imposing heavy fines and legal consequences on companies found guilty of producing or distributing substandard materials and encouraging and incentivizing Liberian manufacturers to increase competition and enhance market quality.
The petition also recommended the prevention of foreign corporations from monopolizing the industry and restricting their control over production and distribution and promoting fair competition. The further recommended ensuring a level playing field for both local and foreign companies through balanced policies.
“Providing financial and technical support to help local businesses meet higher production standards, strengthening accountability measures to prevent corruption and ensure ethical business practices,”
The petition recommended the involvement of industry experts and consumer groups in discussions to improve quality control and stronger Enforcement Mechanisms Developing effective legal frameworks to monitor compliance and protect consumers.
The petitioners argue that allowing foreign companies to dominate Liberia’s steel rod market not only stifles local business growth but also jeopardizes national economic stability.
He emphasized that poor-quality construction materials increase the risk of structural failures, endangering lives and property.
“We must take swift action to address this issue and ensure that only high-quality building materials are used in construction projects. The safety and well-being of our citizens must always be our top priority,” spokesperson Freeman
The group is urging lawmakers to prioritize the concerns of the Liberian people over the interests of foreign corporations, emphasizing that decisive action is needed to restore economic independence and ensure that local businesses have a fair chance to thrive.
“We trust the legislature will hear our concerns and take decisive action to address this urgent issue,” he said.