The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), Orange Liberia, and Ecobank Liberia have officially launched the Integrated Orange Mobile Money Platform for the payment of taxes and fees across 18 government ministries and agencies.

This partnership, signed Wednesday, July 23, 2025 just before the launch, is big leap in Liberia’s digital transformation drive, bringing tax administration closer to global best practices. The new platform connects Orange Money directly with the Liberia Integrated Tax Administration System (LITAS), enabling taxpayers to pay taxes and government fees anytime, anywhere – without the need for internet, only a mobile phone.

For taxpayers, this means faster, cheaper, and more secure transactions. For government, it means closing revenue leakages, reducing compliance bottlenecks, improving efficiency, and expanding domestic revenue to drive national development.

At the launch, LRA Deputy Commissioner for Technical Affairs Gabriel Montgomery described the platform as “a game-changer” for Liberia’s domestic resource mobilization efforts.

“This is about breaking barriers. Taxpayers no longer need to stand in long queues at banks or even have internet. With Orange Money on your phone, taxes can be paid instantly – and you’ll get your official LRA receipt by text message within seconds,” Montgomery said.

“Digitizing taxes and fees is not just a convenience – it’s how we strengthen revenue, build trust, and fuel Liberia’s development.”

Monrovia, July 6, 2025 – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) is stepping up its game in modernizing trade and customs operations across the country, with the digitization of ports and border operations.

 Through its Customs Department, the LRA has successfully rolled out the ASYCUDA World system and introduced an Online Duty-Free Application at six key Customs Business Offices (CBOs), spanning both urban and rural locations.

Fully digitized CBOs now include: Roberts International Airport (RIA), Bo Waterside, Buchanan Port, Yekepa, Ganta, and most recently, Loguatuo.

This marks a major breakthrough for rural Liberia ushering in one of the most robust digital customs upgrades the country has seen in years. It’s a bold move that speaks to the LRA’s commitment to efficient, transparent, and tech-driven border services.

ASYCUDA World is an Automated System for Customs processes a powerful electronic platform that replaces the old paper-based processes. It speeds up customs declarations, streamlines transit operations, sharpens accounting and reporting, and ultimately reduces clearance times while boosting data accuracy and trade efficiency.

The phased rollout began at RIA, Bo Waterside, Buchanan, Yekepa, and Ganta, with Loguatuo being the latest to go live. More deployments are on the way for Toe Town (Grand Gedeh County) and Harper (Maryland County) in the coming days.

To support this transition, the LRA has trained customs officers and brokers on the new system, conducted awareness sessions for border security actors, and installed the necessary IT equipment at all deployment sites.

In another major step forward, the LRA’s own tech team has built and launched a brand-new Online Duty-Free Application Platform. This innovation allows qualified individuals and institutions to submit duty-free requests electronically eliminating paperwork and minimizing manual errors.

Bazzie Akoi, Supervisor of the ASYCUDA Functional Team, hailed the rollout as a game-changer. “This is a milestone achievement that will significantly improve customs processes at our connected rural ports. The introduction of these digital platforms reflects the LRA’s commitment to building a transparent, accountable, and modern customs administration in support of national development,” he said.

Cecilia Dixon-McGill, Manager for Rural Customs Ports, emphasized the importance of decentralizing services: “This shift to full automation is both timely and strategic. It enhances trade facilitation, boosts revenue mobilization, and supports the decentralization of customs services across Liberia.”

She also extended appreciation to all partners and stakeholders whose support made this transition possible.

Meanwhile, William Gegeh, Manager for Customs Reform and Modernization, didn’t mince his words: “We are creating the enabling environment and providing the necessary support to enhance the automation process. Going forward, there will be no room for excuses. Customs officers must fully utilize the system once deployed.”

This entire rollout is part of the LRA’s broader modernization push—aimed at aligning Liberia’s customs operations with global best practices, strengthening border security, and boosting domestic revenue through smarter, faster, and more reliable digital tools.

CONGO TOWN: The Department of Customs at the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) joined customs administrations worldwide on Friday, January 24, to commemorate the 73rd International Customs Day. The celebration, held at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, emphasized the theme, “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.”

By Siaway T. Miapue, contributing writer

Saa Saamoi, Commissioner of Customs, reaffirmed Liberia Customs’ dedication to balancing border security, trade facilitation, and economic growth. He emphasized that the department has been proactive in aligning its operations with the goals outlined by the World Customs Organization (WCO).

“In line with this year’s theme, we remain steadfast in achieving efficiency and security while fostering prosperity,” Saamoi said. “Over the past three years, 80 percent of our staff have completed basic police science training, with the final batch preparing to conclude Phase I of our Customs Security Program.”

The commissioner also announced the commencement of Phase II of the Customs Security Program, which will focus on arms certification for customs officers. He acknowledged partnerships with the Liberia National Police and the Armed Forces of Liberia, which have been crucial in building the department’s capacity.

As part of efforts to boost trade facilitation, Saamoi highlighted strides in automation and regional collaboration. He revealed plans to digitize all customs border offices and enhance existing systems to integrate with international trade platforms. Recent missions to Guinea and Ivory Coast aim to pilot the SIGMAT transit system, supported by the African Development Bank.

“This year, we will implement Liberia’s first-ever electronic trade single window in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce,” Saamoi said. “These initiatives will reduce clearance times and costs while improving transparency and accountability in customs processes.”

Liberia Customs’ impact extends beyond its borders. Saamoi shared that officers have delivered capacity-building missions to countries like Rwanda and Sierra Leone under the auspices of the WCO and the International Monetary Fund.

“Liberia Customs has transitioned from being a recipient of support to a provider of capacity-building assistance across the continent,” he noted.

Despite the progress, Saamoi acknowledged challenges within the system, including corruption. However, he assured stakeholders that steps are being taken to combat fraud through transparent systems, integrity promotion, and enhanced human resource practices.

Serving as keynote speaker, former Grand Gedeh Senator and former Commissioner of Customs G. Alphonso Gaye, highlighted the evolving role of customs in addressing economic and social challenges beyond traditional tax collection.

“Customs administration has transcended its traditional role of tax collection to encompass economic and social dimensions,” Gaye noted. “It is now a critical player in fiscal revenue collection, economic policy implementation, and national security.”

He commended Liberia Customs for its remarkable progress and urged stakeholders to remain committed to transforming the sector. “The progress we see today is a testament to the hard work and resilience of customs officers and administrators,” Gaye said. “I urge all stakeholders to continue supporting the ongoing transformation of Liberia’s customs sector.”

James Dorbor Jallah, Commissioner General of the LRA, echoed the sentiments of both Saamoi and Gaye, emphasizing the critical role of customs in Liberia’s economic growth and security.

“Efficiency is the backbone of trade facilitation, and we are committed to creating a business-friendly environment,” Jallah stated. He highlighted ongoing projects, including the deployment of the electronic trade single window, as steps toward achieving this goal.

The event also underscored Liberia Customs’ achievement of surpassing its revenue target by 8 percent in the last fiscal year, despite policy challenges.

Liberia Customs’ leadership affirmed its commitment to delivering on its mandate while addressing the needs of a growing economy and an evolving global trade environment.

MONROVIA, Liberia – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), in collaboration with the USAID-LEAD Activity, on Friday, November 22 hosted its annual Taxpayer Appreciation and Awards Dinner at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town. The event, held under the theme “Moving to Billions: Celebrating Taxpayers’ Impact,” recognized institutions and local businesses that made outstanding contributions to domestic and customs tax compliance and revenue generation for Liberia in 2022 and 2023.

By: Siaway T. Miapue- siawaytmiapue@gmail.com, contributing writer

The evening saw several companies honored across two categories: Domestic Tax and Customs, acknowledging their role in boosting Liberia’s revenue collection.

In the 2022 Domestic Tax Category, ArcelorMittal Liberia Limited was named the highest contributor, receiving a gold plaque. Ivanhole Liberia Limited was recognized as the second-highest contributor with a silver plaque, and Bea Mountain Mining Corporation secured third place with a bronze plaque.

For 2023, Bea Mountain Mining Corporation took the top honor again with a gold plaque, while ArcelorMittal Liberia Limited claimed the second spot with silver, and Orange Liberia rounded out the top three with a bronze plaque.

In the 2022 Customs Category, several companies were honored for their contributions to the country’s customs revenue. A-Z Corporation was awarded first place for the highest general merchandise contribution, followed by Fayad Enterprise Corporation in second place. Conex Energy Liberia emerged as the highest petroleum contributor, with West Oil Investment Liberia Ltd taking second place. Sunny Brothers Inc was awarded as the highest compliant importer, while City Builders Inc secured second place.

For 2023, A-Z Corporation again received first place for general merchandise contributions, while Fayad Enterprise Corporation came in second. Conex Energy Liberia and Aminata & Sons Inc were recognized as the highest petroleum contributors. In the compliant importers’ category, Sethi Brothers Inc was awarded first place, with Fouani Brothers Inc in second. Sherman Cargo Handling Services and Speedy Cargo Handling received awards for the highest compliant customs brokers.

At the close of the event, Marcus S. Wleh, Head of Sustainability and External Relations at ArcelorMittal Liberia, spoke on behalf of all the awardees. He expressed appreciation for the honor of receiving the awards:
“For all the partners of Liberia who receive awards, we are honored to be identified as part of a winning environment. Without a healthy environment, it will be difficult for us to do the work we want to do and to pay the taxes we want to pay.”

He went on to thank the Liberia Revenue Authority for their patience and support, especially in facilitating compliance among businesses:
“I would like to thank the honorable commissioner general and the minister of commerce, and everybody involved. It’s not an easy task, and we thank you for your patience, as well as for not issuing fines but always trying to help as much as possible. Thank you.”

Dorbor Jallah, Head of the LRA, also delivered an insightful address during the event. He revealed plans by the LRA for continued technological advancements to streamline tax processes, including the introduction of electronic fiscal devices and the shift from a Goods and Services Tax (GST) to a Value Added Tax (VAT) system. Jallah emphasized the importance of modernization to increase compliance and improve revenue collection:
“We are digitizing, and that is what our focus is going to be on for the next couple of years. We want to automate most of our processes and make it seamless for everyone involved.”

He further explained the role of technology in facilitating transparency, saying:
“The goal is to give greater transparency, so when you make your sales or provide services, in real time, we will be able to get that data. When you make your filing, we will already know what to expect.”

In closing, Jallah encouraged taxpayers to embrace these changes for the benefit of national development:
“For us to get to billions, we all have to work together. And when we get there, we will see the benefit. This is about sustainable development, and it’s about the progress of our country.”

The evening served as both a celebration of the achievements of Liberia’s taxpayers and a call to action for further collaboration in moving the country towards greater financial independence and growth. 

Paynesville– The Commissioner General of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), James Dorbor Jallah, along with senior LRA officials, today hosted key discussions with a delegation from the European Union (EU) and the newly appointed Resident Representative of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) at the LRA Headquarters in Paynesville.

The talks centered on sustaining the LRA’s recent achievements in revenue collection and exploring new strategies to increase domestic revenue, supporting Liberia’s economic growth.

Leading the EU delegation, Dr. Anna Brzozowska, Head of Political and Economic Governance Cooperation, announced the EU’s allocation of US$56 million in direct budget support to Liberia over the next three years, with an additional US$7 million earmarked for institutional project support. She emphasized the LRA’s pivotal role in Liberia’s economy and highlighted the meeting’s objective of identifying areas where the EU could assist the Authority in enhancing its capacity to further drive revenue growth.

Commissioner General Jallah expressed his gratitude to the EU for its support and pointed to Liberia’s significant untapped potential in the real estate sector, which requires strategic investments to unlock. He underscored the importance of establishing a national cadastral system, noting that the LRA has already begun decentralizing its real estate initiatives in Grand Bassa and Margibi Counties, aligned with the implementation of elements from the Local Government Act.

In a subsequent meeting, IMF Resident Representative Joel Chiedu Okwuokei expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to meet with LRA leadership, stating that the LRA is crucial to Liberia’s economic outlook. Mr. Okwuokei reaffirmed the IMF’s commitment to collaborating with the LRA, noting that its efforts are key to shaping the nation’s economic future.

In response, Commissioner General Jallah provided an optimistic forecast for the LRA, revealing that the Authority is on track to collect at least US$700 million in domestic revenue by the end of 2024. He outlined the LRA’s long-term vision of reaching a billion-dollar revenue milestone, emphasizing the institution’s focus on its goals amid political distractions and external noise.

Earlier in the day, Liberia’s Finance Minister, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, held an extensive meeting with the LRA’s senior management team to discuss revenue forecasting and the finalization of the 2025 national draft budget. The discussions aimed at aligning revenue projections with national priorities to ensure the timely submission of the budget to the President and the Legislature.

“Our goal is to have the 2025 national budget approved and ready for implementation before the start of the new year,” Minister Ngafuan stated.

The LRA’s ongoing partnerships with key international stakeholders underscore its commitment to driving Liberia’s economic growth through robust revenue collection efforts, positioning the Authority as a critical player in achieving national financial stability.

Monrovia, Liberia – October 3, 2024: – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has received over US$100,000 worth of Information Technology equipment from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), aimed at supporting the modernization and strengthening of tax administration in Liberia.

This in-kind grant from USAID, provided under the Local Empowerment for Accountability and Decentralization (LEAD) Activity, is part of USAID’s broader effort to enhance tax collection systems and increase revenue for Liberia.

During the official handover of the consignment at the LRA Headquarters in Paynesville, U.S. Ambassador to Liberia, Mark Toner, reaffirmed the U.S. Government’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s revenue mobilization efforts as a cornerstone for national development.

The donation included 30 state-of-the-art laptops and various other IT equipment.

“As Liberia transitions from the Goods and Services Tax (GST) to the Value Added Tax (VAT) system, this equipment will play a pivotal role in improving operational efficiency and accountability, while also fostering public trust in the LRA,” Ambassador Toner said.

He emphasized that a robust tax administration system is fundamental to any nation’s development. “By boosting the LRA’s capacity to collect taxes more effectively, the United States is not only helping to increase revenue but also supporting the enhancement of public services in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” he added.

Ambassador Toner further highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in revenue management, stating that citizens must see the tangible benefits of their taxes to build confidence in the system.

LRA Commissioner General James Dorbor Jallah expressed profound gratitude to USAID for the generous donation and reiterated the LRA’s commitment to its ambitious goal of increasing domestic revenue from US$700 million to US$1 billion in the near future.

“This support from USAID will significantly bolster our efforts to modernize our systems and improve tax collection, which is crucial for Liberia’s development agenda,” Commissioner General

Jallah said. He also acknowledged the long-standing contributions of the U.S. to Liberia’s development in areas such as peace, security, health, and education, noting that the U.S.’s support is invaluable.

The LRA continues to drive transformative changes in Liberia’s tax system, aiming to increase revenue generation to support national development goals.

Ganta, Nimba County- The Customs Department of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has commenced a week-long refresher and capacity building training program for at least 50 customs officers stationed at rural ports across Liberia. 

By Franklin Doloquee/ Nimba County 

This initiative underscores the LRA’s commitment to enhancing the skills and knowledge of its customs officers, which is crucial for effective revenue collection and trade facilitation.

The three-day training has brought together rural port operators from across the country, where participants are being equipped with refreshed knowledge, skills, and attitudes in key areas. 

These include customs procedures and regimes, port operations, valuation and tax calculations, taxation on international trade, and the legal frameworks governing tax types and calculations. 

The training cohort includes Senior Customs Collectors, Chief Assessors, Chief Examiners, Cashiers, and Examiners, all of whom are gaining a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities in their day-to-day work.

The aim is to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the material, the officers are engaging in both theoretical and practical exercises. 

This approach, according to the report, will allow participants to evaluate their grasp of the training content and their ability to implement the knowledge in real-world scenarios effectively.

Mr. William L. Buku, Assistant Commissioner for Customs Policy and Technical Operations and one of the facilitators of the training, emphasized the ongoing nature of learning in the customs field. “Learning is a continuous process, and with the ever-emerging developments in international trade, the LRA remains committed to continuously building the capacity of our customs officers. 

He said, this will ensure they are on par with their counterparts globally and exhibit best international practices in their daily operations,” Buku stated.

Adding to the sentiment, Assistant Customs Commissioner for Rural Ports, Edwin Kendema, encouraged the participants to fully engage in the training. “Take this training seriously,” Kendema urged. “The knowledge you acquire here is essential, especially as we strive to increase our revenue collection from the millions to the billions. Your role is pivotal in achieving our national revenue goals.”

Out of the 2024 national budget of US$738.8 million, the LRA is mandated to collect US$696.426 million domestically, with the Customs Department responsible for a substantial share of US$198.213 million, LRA Commissioner General James Dorbor Jallah recently told a cabinet meeting chaired by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. An additional external resource of approximately US$42 million is anticipated to equate the entire budget to US$ US$738.8.

As of July 31, 2024, the LRA had already collected 59% (US$412.370 million) of the annual budget, with the Customs Department contributing US$124.796 million, which represents 63% of its annual target.  

Accounting to report, this underscores the critical role of the Customs Department in achieving Liberia’s revenue collection goals and highlights the importance of continuous training and capacity-building initiatives.

The ongoing training is a cornerstone of the LRA’s strategy to maintain professionalism, facilitate seamless international trade, and significantly boost revenue collection. It also aligns with the authority’s goal of ensuring social protection and economic stability for Liberia.

The LRA recognizes the vital role that customs operations play in revenue collection and national development. As such, initiatives like this capacity-building training are fundamental in driving the LRA’s mission to remain a professional and efficient institution that supports Liberia’s economic agenda.

Monrovia – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has registered and documented at least 20,000 real properties under its ongoing real estate decentralization project in Margibi and Grand Bassa Counties

LRA Commissioner General James Dorbor Jallah announced that the project, supported by the Government of Sweden and various partners, has brought 12,000 properties in Margibi County and 9,000 in Grand Bassa County into the tax net.

This initiative is a key part of efforts to implement the Local Government Act of 2018 and the Revenue Sharing Act of 2022. These crucial pieces of legislation aim to promote inclusive revenue mobilization to support local development and public service expansion.

The laws mandate that revenues collected from real properties in the counties be shared equally with local authorities, meaning the central government will share the revenue collected from registered properties with local governments.

Commissioner General Jallah provided an update on the project during a recent meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Decentralization, which was attended by President Joseph N. Boakai. Several government officials and development partners were present, all expressing their support for the full decentralization of public services and development.

The LRA Commissioner General stressed the need for all government stakeholders to collaborate effectively to achieve holistic decentralization of governance. He emphasized the importance of educating taxpayers, improving technological infrastructure, and building capacity at the local level as key elements for successful decentralization.

“Decentralization is achievable but requires a holistic partnership and collaboration to make it happen,” said Commissioner General Jallah.

He also highlighted the need to establish partnerships to identify local revenue sources, allowing counties, cities, townships, and boroughs to levy their own taxes. This effort aims to strengthen and finance local governments. Key actions include creating a database for identifying real properties, enforcing compliance with registration and payment, and setting up revenue-sharing mechanisms.

The LRA decentralization project – still in its pilot stage – was launched in 2021 in Margibi and later extended to Grand Bassa in 2023, providing job and contractual opportunities for residents, especially young people.

Monrovia, July 1, 2024 – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) marks its 10th anniversary today (July 1), commemorating a decade of significant achievements and expressing gratitude to the nation’s taxpayers for their unwavering commitment and support. In a special statement, Commissioner General James Dorbor Jallah highlighted the remarkable progress in tax administration and the crucial role of taxpayers in have played in Liberia’s development over the last one decade.

Ten years ago, the LRA commenced its operations with a mission to enhance tax collection, improve efficiency, and promote transparency. Over the past decade, the authority has successfully increased domestic revenue from an annual collection of US$400 million to nearly US$800 million, amassing a total revenue of at least US$4.3 billion. This substantial growth underscores the dedication and compliance of responsible taxpayers across the country.

“The increased revenue has had a profound impact on our nation’s growth and development,” stated Commissioner General Jallah. “Through your tax contributions, this and previous governments have been able to create greater opportunities, including investments in infrastructure development, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for our nation. We salute your invaluable contributions to making Liberia better.”

The Commissioner General also acknowledged the dedication and commitment of LRA staff who have been instrumental in improving tax collection processes, engaging with taxpayers, and ensuring fairness and accountability. “Their efforts, combined with your cooperation, have enabled us to build a tax system grounded in integrity, mutual respect, and trust,” Jallah added.

Over the years, the LRA has made significant strides in digitizing tax payment processes. Initiatives such as mobile tax payment, direct bank transfer, paperless customs declaration, and the recently implemented Liberia Integrated Tax Administration System (LITAS) have modernized tax administration, expanded the tax net, and enhanced compliance. These efforts have contributed to the doubling of annual revenue collection, embodying the authority’s slogan, “Moving to the Billions.”

As the LRA celebrates this milestone, Commissioner General Jallah emphasized the authority’s commitment to addressing challenges, simplifying processes, and improving services to ensure a progressive, equitable, and accessible tax system for all. Continuous investment in technology and innovation remains a priority to enhance efficiency, reduce bureaucracy, and make the tax-paying experience more convenient and transparent.

“On this 10th Anniversary of the LRA, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting a culture of tax compliance, responsibility, and transparency,” Jallah stated. “We encourage every taxpayer to continue collaborating with us, fulfilling your civic duty, and supporting our nation’s development. Together, we can build a prosperous Liberia for ourselves and the generations to come. As we say at LRA, ‘Pay Tax We All Enjoy.’”

The Liberia Revenue Authority extends its heartfelt gratitude to all taxpayers and wishes everyone a Happy 10th LRA Anniversary.

 (Thursday, June 30, 2024) – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has welcomed a recent ruling from the Tax Court, denying Eagle Electrical Corporation’s petition for a refund of approximately US$20,000.

In the March Term of Court, the Corporation filed a protest, claiming an ‘unfair increment’ in the Free On Board (FOB) value of their goods. The shipment in question included 512 bath cabinets which the corporation priced at US$3 each and 2,240 toilet accessories priced at US$2 each, imported from Brazil.

The LRA, through its Customs Assessment Unit (CAU) assessed the consignment and determined the lowest researched unit costs to be US$49 for cabinets and US$14.45 for toilet accessories, suggesting that the company had underpriced its imported goods.

During the Court’s hearings, the LRA’s legal team opposed the company’s petition for there to over the LRA’s assessed price, arguing that all actions taken by the LRA were in strict accordance with the Liberia Revenue Code. According to the LRA legal team, the value of the imports was determined in accordance with Section 1239(e) of the Revenue Code.

Resident Tax Court Judge U-Jay Bright, after considering arguments from both sides, concluded that there were no valid reasons to overturn the findings and decision of the LRA. This ruling determined that Eagle Electrical Corporation is not entitled to a refund.

The LRA considers the ruling a testament to its commitment and mission to fairly, transparently, and professionally apply the laws to collect the country’s revenue.

The LRA also calls on the business community to adhere to transparency and accountability practices and avoid activities that undermine the collection of legitimate revenue for Liberia’s development.