By Grace Bryant Mollay
The Liberia Special Economic Zones Authority (LSEZA) has launched a two-day stakeholders’ validation workshop focused on finalizing draft regulations for the implementation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) across Liberia.
The event being held at the Mamba Point Hotel in Monrovia from April 16–17, brings together key development partners, government ministries, and international institutions to refine the legal framework governing Liberia’s SEZs.
The program is graced by high-level representatives from the U.S. Embassy, LIFT-P/World Bank, African Development Bank, UNDP, European Union, Nextier Liberia, and other key stakeholders. The forum marks a pivotal step in Liberia’s journey toward industrialization and inclusive economic growth.
Once finalized, the draft regulations will serve as the operational framework for SEZs nationwide—anchored on the principles of Clarity, Transparency, and Confidence (CTC), a recurring theme throughout the engagement.
The Executive Chairman of LSEZA, Prince A. Wreh, described the regulations as more than legal instruments; they are a roadmap for job creation, industrial development, and sustainable economic growth.
“They define how we attract and protect investment, and how we create an environment where businesses and communities can thrive,” Wreh said.
He emphasized, “To our investors, your capital is safe here. To the Liberian people these zones are for you. They are the engines of jobs, infrastructure, and lasting opportunity,”
The regulations establish comprehensive standards for the designation, development, and management of SEZs, outlining the roles of government agencies, procurement processes, investor protections, and multi-stakeholder coordination.
Wreh underscored their importance in aligning Liberia with global best practices while safeguarding national interests.
He also emphasized that SEZs are more than physical infrastructure, they are catalysts for job creation, technology transfer, and local economic development.
“This is not just about business. It’s about people. It’s about ensuring a better future for generations to come,” he said.
According to Wreh, the new regulatory framework ensures a well-regulated environment where businesses can thrive, goods can move freely, and communities can benefit from sustainable growth.
The SEZ regulations clearly define the roles of investors, developers, and government agencies while promoting clarity, transparency, and competence.
President Joseph Boakai highlighted that the regulations’ role in providing legal security for both domestic and international investors.
Developed through extensive stakeholder consultation, the regulations align with international standards and demonstrate Liberia’s commitment to competitive, long-term private sector partnerships.
To the SEZ Authority team, Wreh issued a call for professionalism and efficiency. To the Liberian people, he promised that the zones will deliver jobs, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. “This, he noted, is just the beginning of Liberia’s industrial transformation with strong backing from both local and international partners.”
The regulatory framework is being finalized with support from the World Bank’s Liberia Investment Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P), which has provided both technical and financial assistance. After months of stakeholder engagement and the hiring of a legal consultant, the regulations are nearing completion.
World Bank Task Team Leader, Alari Mahdi, reiterated the Bank’s commitment, “Sound regulation is key to unlocking the potential of SEZs. We are proud to support LSEZA and encourage broad stakeholder engagement to ensure these regulations remain living documents that evolve with Liberia’s needs.”
The Senior Economic Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Liberia, Jonathan Hilton, reaffirmed the embassy’s support, emphasizing the role of transparent and well-regulated SEZs in attracting investment and stimulating economic growth.
Speaking on behalf of Ambassador Mark Toner, Hilton praised the guiding principles of Clarity, Transparency, and Confidence (CTC) as critical to investor assurance.
“We are confident these regulations will attract a vibrant group of U.S. investors, bringing jobs, technology, and essential services to Liberia,” Hilton said.
The Senior Director for Economic Policy at the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), Christopher Wallace expressed the Bank’s endorsement, citing alignment with national economic priorities, including price stability and financial sector development.
He highlighted CBL’s commitment to enabling the financial infrastructure needed to support SEZs, including initiatives like the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System.
The foundation for Liberia’s SEZs was laid by the 2017 Special Economic Zones Act. However, the draft implementing regulations now under validation will provide the detailed provisions necessary for effective operation covering procurement, investor protections, inter-agency coordination, and dispute resolution.
