VP Koung “We Are Ready For Business” Commissions New Port Equipment and launches Night-Time Sailing At Free Port of Monrovia
July 8, 2025
Monrovia: The Vice of Liberia has commissioned new port equipment and as well launched the night time sailing urging partners to continue their support to the expansion of the Free Port of Monrovia, the gateway to Liberia’s thriving economy.
VP Koung noted that the Government recognizes a strong and efficient port system essential to national development under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), emphasizing that the Boakai-Koung leadership remain committed to improving port infrastructure, ensuring transparency and global compliance.
“Let it be known that the port is the heartbeat of our economy which carries the possibilities for improving the private sector and lifting thousands of Liberians out of poverty, it is therefore with great pride and national significance that we gather here today to mark two historic milestones in Liberia’s maritime and economic journey; the commissioning of modern port equipment and the official launch of night-time sailing at the Free Port of Monrovia”.
He said the Free Port of Monrovia has long stood as a pillar for national growth, the largest and busiest port of Liberia that handles over 80% of the country’s trade portfolio through import and exports of essential goods and services.
VP noted that the Port connects the Nation to global trade routes, facilitates commerce, and serves as a beacon of opportunity for job creation and private sector development adding that the commissioning of the equipment reaffirms government’s preparedness to make the economy competitive and boost the Nation’s integration into regional and global markets.
“With these assets, we are reducing the vessel turnaround time and enhancing safety and service delivery at the free port of Monrovia”. He said.
He also said “With these improvements, it is now time for us to introduce the Advanced Cargo Declarations (ACD) and Time Release Services (TRS); these tools potentially reduce delays and improve efficiency, as we celebrate today, let us also remember that this is not the finish line, but a new beginning. Let us continue to build, innovate, and invest in the infrastructure that will drive our economy forward and improve the livelihood of all Liberians”.
According to the VP Koung, the investment sends a strong message that Liberia is ready and open for business saying Liberia is modernizing its port infrastructure to meet global standards, attract investment, and support the growth of both local and international industries.
He said the night-time sailing marks a major step in the maritime operations. According to him, “for the first time in many years, vessels will now be able to enter and exit the Free Port of Monrovia beyond daylight hours meaning we have enhanced port productivity, 24-hour operations, reduced shipping costs, and improved competitiveness in the region”.
The Vice President said Liberia could not achieve this alone acknowledging the leadership and staff of the National Port Authority and partners in the maritime and logistics sectors who believed in the country’s vision for a sustainable economy that will create jobs for our people.
“Together, let us sail into a future where Liberia’s ports are the true drivers of our economy. I encourage all port users to take advantage of this 24 hours’ service and terminal operations.
Ladies and gentlemen, we hereby officially launch the nighttime sailing operations, I am convinced that these achievements represent technical upgrades or operational adjustments.
They are bold symbols of progress, readiness, and our collective commitment to positioning Liberia as a regional hub for trade and commerce”.
VP Koung noted that Pres. Joseph Boakai’s vision for economic transformation remains unquestionable.
