By Amos Harris
Hundreds of market women operating under the banner of the China Business Women of Liberia on Tuesday stormed the grounds of the Capitol Building in Monrovia, demanding urgent government intervention into what they described as excessive port charges, rising taxes, and prolonged shipping delays threatening the survival of their businesses.
The protest highlights growing frustration among Liberian businesswomen over the mounting cost of importing goods, with the demonstrators accusing port operators, particularly APM Terminals and GTMS, of imposing excessive and unjustified charges that are placing unbearable pressure on their businesses.
The women said the combination of rising operational costs, unpredictable shipping schedules, and prolonged clearance delays has pushed several businesses toward collapse, with some reportedly facing the possibility of shutting down completely.
According to the protesters, imported goods sometimes spend between six and seven months at sea before reaching Liberia, a situation they described as economically damaging and unacceptable for businesses operating in an already challenging commercial environment.
They further complained that delays do not end when their goods arrive in Liberia, alleging that additional port-related complications and clearance processes continue to prevent them from accessing their merchandise in a timely manner.
The protesting women said the prolonged delays have created serious financial difficulties, particularly for traders who depend on bank loans to finance their importation activities. They lamented that while their goods remain stranded in transit or at the ports, loan interest continues to accumulate, leaving them trapped in mounting debts.
The demonstration raises broader concerns about the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of Liberia’s port and shipping systems, particularly their impact on small and medium-sized businesses that contribute to the country’s commercial activities and employment.
The women are demanding an immediate and independent investigation into the alleged shipping and port clearance delays, including the role of shipping companies and port operators. They also want authorities to determine whether the charges being imposed are justified and consistent with applicable regulations.
Among their key demands are a clear and enforceable timeline for the arrival and clearance of imported goods, an urgent review of port charges, and stronger government oversight to prevent businesses from being subjected to what they consider excessive and unfair commercial practices.
The protesters warned that failure by the government to address their concerns could result in the collapse of numerous small businesses and threaten the livelihoods of thousands of market women and their families. They called on relevant authorities to treat the situation as an urgent economic concern, stressing that protecting local businesses requires accountability, transparency, and immediate action.
The allegations against APM Terminals, GTMS, and other shipping-related operators have not been independently verified.