The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a strong policy regulation mandating all marketers, business operators and street vendors to discontinue selling goods or market products in the open street and along the car road.
The move, the Ministry said, aligns with its policy and part of ongoing efforts to restore order at commercial areas, improve the free flow of pedestrian and enhance public safety. In a press release issued via its official Facebook page, the Ministry of Commerce warned that beginning May 1, 2026, all business transactions and commercial activities must be done in stores or shops as there will be punitive actions taken against would be violators.
According to MOCI, the constant selling of goods on the sidewalks, and unauthorized places by marketers, most of whom are women, endangers public safety, contribute to general disorder and congestion.
“The Ministry has observed with concern, the increasing display of goods on sidewalks, roadways, and other unauthorized spaces, activities that contribute to congestion, safety risks and general disorder” the release noted.
The Commerce Ministry further noted that no goods or merchandize shall be sold or displayed outside business premises in line with its statutory mandate to regulate commerce and trade activities across Liberia.
“Beginning Monday, May 1, 2026, the Ministry in collaboration with relevant enforcement agency will strictly enforce this regulation” the release emphasized.
The Ministry warned that any business found in violation will face several penalties including immediate confiscation and removal of goods, temporary or permanent closure, payment of fines and legal action in confines with the laws.
It emphasized that these measures are aimed at creating an organized, safe and enabling environment for businesses and the public rather than hinder economic and business activities.
However, reacting to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry press release, the President of the Petty Traders and Informer Workers Union of Liberia, Charles Konnah rejected the Ministry’s mandate, terming it as counterproductive to the growth and sustainability of small businesses, especially petty traders and “yana boys” who use the sidewalks and roadside to sell goods.
He added that statement from the Ministry of Commerce does not reflect the struggles and suffering of marketers who leave their homes to fend for their family daily needs. Konnah stressed that marketers choose to sell in the street due to extreme hardship, which affects the influx of customers in the market.
“Look at the circumstances people are going through today. Do you think people are selling on the street because they want to bluff?” the President of the Petty Traders and Informer Workers Union of Liberia asked, using a rhetorical question with a no.
FEPTIWUL President called on the Ministry of Commerce to collaborate with relevant institution, particularly the Monrovia City Corporation which the Union has been partnering with to resolve matters relating to transforming the informal sector and removing vendors from the sidewalk and roadside.
According to him, working collaboratively will reduce commotion amongst members, thereby promoting cordiality and compliance of regulations intended to instill public order.
“I think what we need is collaboration so we all can sit down together to have an understanding on how to resolve this matter with our members.” He said.
Tensions are rising among petty traders, business operators, and marketers as the stakes grow higher ahead of the Ministry of Commerce’s planned enforcement of policies to remove street vendors on Monday, May 4, 2026.
Many affected vendors say the move could disrupt and negatively impact their livelihood.