Monrovia — The President of the National Customs Brokers Association of Liberia (NCBAL) has reiterated his organization’s unwavering commitment to promoting transparency, professionalism, and modernization within the country’s customs sector a move he says is critical to strengthening Liberia’s economy and enhancing its competitiveness in global trade.
Speaking at a Movement of Intellectual Exchange Forum in District #14, Clara Town, the NCBAL President outlined the strategic role customs brokers play in Liberia’s trade environment. He said customs brokers form a vital link in the nation’s revenue chain, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and integrity in customs operations.
“Our work directly impacts national development,” he emphasized. “When customs operations are transparent and professional, trade becomes smoother, investors gain confidence, and government revenue increases.”
The NCBAL leader underscored that the customs brokerage profession demands high ethical and technical standards. To qualify as a customs broker, he said, one must be a Liberian citizen, at least 18 years old, possess the necessary technical skills, and pass the Customs Brokers Competency Examination administered by the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA).
He explained that applicants must also provide a Tax Identification Number (TIN), a valid Tax Clearance Certificate, and a Police Clearance — measures that ensure only credible and qualified individuals are admitted into the profession.
“These safeguards protect the integrity of the trade system and help eliminate unprofessional conduct that undermines public trust,” he said.
As the umbrella body for customs clearing and freight forwarding professionals, NCBAL continues to collaborate closely with the LRA to certify, train, and empower licensed agents. The organization is also advocating for policy reforms that align Liberia’s customs operations with international best practices.
“Our vision is clear,” the NCBAL President stated. “Through transparency, capacity building, and efficient trade facilitation, we aim to attract investment, boost revenue, and accelerate Liberia’s economic growth.”
He stressed that efficient customs processes are not mere administrative requirements but essential tools for national development, reducing delays, enhancing fair competition, and fostering trade expansion.
Concluding his address, the NCBAL President called for stronger cooperation among customs brokers, the private sector, and the government to reinforce accountability and professionalism across Liberia’s trade system.
“When customs operations are transparent and accountable, the entire nation benefits,” he said to applause from the audience.
The address highlighted the NCBAL’s growing influence in supporting Liberia’s economic recovery and trade modernization efforts, in line with ongoing reforms by the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning to streamline customs processes and enhance compliance with global trade standards.
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