Liberia Travel Guide - Business

• GDP: US$902.9 million (2006).
• Main exports: Rubber, diamonds, iron ore, timber and cocoa.
• Main imports: Mineral fuels, chemicals, machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods.
• Main trade partners: USA, EU, Japan, Sierra Leone and China.

The civil war caused severe damage to the economy and, following the peace settlement, reconstruction has been the highest priority as the infrastructure is in ruins. In 2003, unemployment was at 85% and inflation at 15%. Liberia's annual growth was 7.8% in 2006. Around 70% of the population work the land, producing rice and cassava as staple foods and palm oil, coffee and cocoa as cash crops. The country’s principal export commodities are iron ore and rubber. Some gold and diamonds are also mined.

The manufacturing industry (still operating far below capacity) produces cement and other building materials, chemicals, drinks and tobacco and consumer products. Liberia operates one of the longest established open registry (flag of convenience) merchant shipping fleets. This continues to be an essential source of foreign exchange and government revenue.

Liberia relies heavily on international aid and financial support. It is a member of the West African trading bloc ECOWAS. The USA is Liberia’s largest trading partner.

Business dress is informal – normally a shirt and tie is acceptable. The language used in business circles is English.

Office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1400-1700.

Liberia Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 92, Monrovia, Liberia
Tel: +231 223 738.