Africa-Press – Liberia. In a swift response to operational setbacks that disrupted container movements at the Freeport of Monrovia on the night of April 30, the National Port Authority (NPA) has issued a directive mandating the waiver of all storage charges incurred during the incident.
According to an official statement signed by Emmanuel Horton, Deputy Managing Director for Operations and Acting Managing Director of the NPA, the decision aims to ease the financial burden on port users and stakeholders whose cargo was delayed due to unforeseen trucking challenges.
“The Management of APM Terminals Liberia is hereby instructed to waive all storage charges for containers affected during the period of this disruption,” the NPA stated. “The Freeport of Monrovia is likewise directed to waive any storage fees for containers and vehicles that remained overnight within the Port facility as a result of this impasse.”
The operational breakdown reportedly involved logistical constraints faced by truckers, which hampered the timely loading and exit of containers from the port—a critical hub for Liberia’s international trade. Though specific details of the disruption remain limited, sources suggest that traffic congestion and procedural bottlenecks within the terminal area may have played a role.
Port users welcomed the decision, noting that such waivers are necessary for maintaining trust and ensuring business continuity.
“This is a commendable move by the NPA,” said James Karbo, a logistics manager with a major import-export firm operating in Monrovia. “Unexpected delays at the port already affect delivery timelines and customer satisfaction. Waiving fees helps us avoid additional costs that are beyond our control.”
Stakeholders in Liberia’s import and export sectors rely heavily on the Freeport of Monrovia, which serves as the country’s largest and busiest seaport. Efficient cargo handling and timely clearance are critical for business operations, especially in sectors such as construction, agriculture, and manufacturing.
The NPA emphasized its commitment to ensuring smooth port operations and mitigating the impact of disruptions on the business community. “We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to resolve the situation and maintain the smooth operation of the port,” the agency concluded.
Industry observers note that the waiver could serve as a precedent for future responses to unplanned disruptions, highlighting the importance of flexibility and responsiveness in port administration.
For More News And Analysis About Liberia Follow Africa-Press
