Over $4K Worth Of Expired Commodities Destroyed

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in River Gee County, has destroyed expired goods valued at over US$4,000 in a public burning exercise aimed at protecting consumers and removing unsafe products from local markets.

The exercise was conducted at the Ministry’s administrative compound in Fish Town City.

The confiscated items, which included expired food items, drinks, and household products, had been seized during recent market inspections and stored at the Ministry’s office.

Speaking to reporters and market vendors during the burning, Mr. Richard Bestman, County Inspector of the Ministry of Commerce, said the exercise was part of the Ministry’s mandate to ensure that only safe and certified products are sold to the public.

”These goods are expired and pose serious health risks to our people. We cannot allow them to remain in circulation,” Mr. Bestman stated.

 “This destruction sends a clear message that the Ministry will not tolerate the sale of expired products in River Gee.”

Mr. Bestman disclosed that the Ministry will intensify market inspections across all districts in River Gee County in the coming months.

Inspection teams will visit stores, markets, and warehouses to check expiration dates and product quality.

He warned business owners that selling expired goods is a violation of commerce regulations. 

“Any business owner found selling expired products will face fines and possible closure in line with the Ministry’s rules,” he warned. “We will identify, confiscate, and destroy these goods before they reach consumers.”

The Ministry has urged all business owners to take responsibility by regularly checking expiration dates on their shelves and removing outdated products immediately.

“Our goal is not to punish, but to protect. Consumers deserve safe products, and businesses must cooperate to ensure that,” Mr. Bestman added.

The destruction of the expired goods was witnessed by local authorities, market leaders, and community members. Officials say similar exercises will be carried out periodically as part of ongoing consumer protection efforts.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Liberia Business Association and community leaders to promote fair trade practices and public safety in River Gee County.