By Domingo Dargbeh
The Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority (LACRA) on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, convened a high-level meeting with cocoa and coffee exporters at a resort in Monrovia.
The meeting addressed mounting challenges in the cocoa sector, including declining global prices, export compliance pressures, smuggling and concerns over industry costs.
The gathering was chaired by LACRA Director Dan T. Saryee, who welcomed participants on behalf of the Board and staff.
Saryee also thanked exporters for their continued role in sustaining the agricultural economy.
He said, several Liberian families depend on cocoa and coffee exports; that LACRA is deeply concerned about the difficult conditions farmers and exporters now face.
Mr. Saryee highlighted the urgency of preparing for new international regulations, particularly the upcoming deadline under the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). He warned that failure to meet compliance requirements could seriously affect Liberia’s agricultural exports and national revenue.
“If exporters struggle, LACRA struggles and farmers suffer. We are all in the same boat,” Mr. Saryee added.
He stressed the importance of the dialogue and partnership across the value chain.
Exporters extoled LACRA for convening the meeting and appealed for a temporary reduction in royalty fees, noting that current rates were established during stronger market conditions.
They reported difficulty securing buyers, increased unsold stock in warehouses, and the need for government support similar to measures taken in other cocoa-producing countries.
Participants also raised concerns about farm-gate price information, and the continued problem of cocoa smuggling across borders, which undermines farmers, exporters, and government revenue.
A major issue raised by most exporters was the performance of MedTech Scientific Liberia Limited, which provides destination inspection and verification services at the Freeport of Monrovia.
Exporters said the company is doing little or nothing beyond work already performed by LACRA, yet charges additional fees that increase the burden on exporters during a difficult market period.
They called for a review of the arrangement in collaboration with relevant government authorities.
Mr. Saryee said, royalty adjustments require the Board consideration, but assured exporters that LACRA is reviewing all concerns to strike a balance between regulatory sustainability and sector survival.
He also noted that LACRA will engage partners, including customs and other agencies, to address smuggling and strengthen coordination on inspection processes.
The meeting agreed to continue dialogue, improve communication on farm-gate prices, accelerate EUDR readiness efforts in Bong, Lofa and Nimba counties.
The intent is to hold further stakeholder consultations with relevant ministries and partners.
Saryee meanwhile, reaffirmed LACRA’s commitment to protect farmers, support exporters, and strengthen agricultural export sector through cooperation, transparency and shared responsibility.