By Bridgett Milton
Monrovia, Liberia, March 17, 2026: The Liberia Special Economic Zones Authority (LSEZA) is set to establish Liberia’s first-ever packaging solution center. The announcement was made on Friday, March 13, 2026, at a one-day symposium held at the Royal Grand Hotel in Sinkor. The initiative aims to strengthen the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and improve the quality and marketability of locally produced goods.
According to LSEZA Executive Chairperson Prince Wreh, the facility—Liberia Packaging Solutions (LPS)—will play a pivotal role in supporting Liberian businesses by enhancing product presentation, preservation, and packaging standards to meet international requirements. Wreh described the initiative as a critical step toward addressing the persistent challenge of inadequate product packaging among Liberian entrepreneurs.
He noted that while many Liberian businesses produce quality goods, insufficient packaging continues to limit their ability to compete effectively in both domestic and international markets. Approximately US$675,000 has been allocated under the Public Sector Investment Program (PSIP) to support the construction and initial setup of the center. This funding will cover the procurement of specialized packaging equipment and other necessary infrastructure to make the facility fully operational.
The Packaging Solutions Center will serve as a support system for SMEs, providing modern packaging technologies and technical assistance to help businesses improve product quality, extend shelf life, and access broader markets.
Speaking at the symposium on behalf of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Senior Trade Policy Analyst Mr. Alex Sewo emphasized the transformative role Special Economic Zones (SEZs) can play in Liberia’s economic development. He cited global examples where SEZs have driven industrialization, export expansion, and job creation. Sewo highlighted that for resource-rich countries like Liberia, SEZs offer opportunities to move beyond exporting raw materials by developing competitive, value-added industries.
He identified agro-processing as a key sector where value could be added to Liberia’s agricultural output, contributing to food security and rural development.
The conference brought together representatives from the Liberia Standards Authority, Liberia Tourism Authority, Liberia Business Association, and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, among other stakeholders.
