By Pewu Y. Sumo
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The government of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoCI) has issued a stern directive to the Liberian business community, mandating that all commercial activities be moved indoors to address growing concerns over urban congestion and public safety.
In a public service announcement released today, the Ministry informed business owners, operators, and marketers that effective May 1, 2026, the display or sale of goods on sidewalks, roadways, and unauthorized public spaces is strictly prohibited.
A Move for Public Order
The Ministry noted that the proliferation of “street-front” trading has contributed to significant disorder in major commercial hubs. The new policy requires all transactions to be conducted strictly within the physical boundaries of stores and shops.
“This directive forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to restore order, enhance public safety, and improve the free flow of pedestrians,” the MoCI statement detailed. “The increasing display of goods in unauthorized spaces contributes to congestion and unnecessary safety risks.”
Enforcement Timeline
While the mandate officially begins on May 1, the Ministry has allowed a brief window for businesses to reorganize their operations. However, beginning May 4, 2026, a joint task force comprising the MoCI and relevant security agencies will launch a rigorous nationwide enforcement exercise.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The Ministry warned that businesses found violating the “in-store only” policy will face immediate and severe administrative actions, including the immediate removal and seizure of any goods displayed outside business premises, payment of prescribed administrative penalties and fines, temporary or permanent closure of establishments that fail to comply and possible prosecution in accordance with the regulatory frameworks of the Republic of Liberia.
Supporting a Professional Trade Environment
The MoCI emphasized that these measures are intended to support, rather than hinder, the economy. By clearing the sidewalks and ensuring commerce is conducted within designated shops, the Ministry aims to create a more organized and enabling environment for both legitimate businesses and the consuming public.
This directive follows recent efforts by Minister Magdalene Ellen Dagoseh to stabilize the trade environment and modernize Liberia’s commercial infrastructure under the government’s broader development agenda.
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