Published: January 30, 2026
MONROVIA — The European Union has reaffirmed Liberia’s full duty-free access to its market and signaled plans to pursue new investments in key sectors ahead of a high-level EU–Liberia Business Forum scheduled next month in Brussels.
Speaking Thursday at a Ministry of Information press briefing, EU Ambassador to Liberia Nona Deprez said Liberia continues to benefit from the EU’s “Everything But Arms” trade arrangement, which allows all Liberian exports, except weapons, to enter European markets without tariffs or quotas.
“Liberia has unrestricted access to the European market, and this is a concrete opportunity for growth, value addition and employment if it is strategically used,” Deprez said.
Trade and investment push
Deprez described the EU as Africa’s largest trading partner and investor, emphasizing that European investments are long-term and governed by international transparency and labor standards.
“In a world of rising geopolitical and economic tensions, the European Union remains a predictable and trusted partner to Liberia, committed for the long haul,” she said.
She added that European companies operating in Africa pay taxes, create formal employment and support sustainable development, positioning them as stable partners for Liberia’s economic agenda.
Brussels business forum
The ambassador linked the renewed commitments to the EU–Liberia Business Forum set for Feb. 24–25, 2026, in Brussels, a joint initiative between the EU and the Liberian government aimed at attracting investors and strengthening economic ties.
The forum will spotlight priority sectors including energy, infrastructure, agriculture, skills development and private-sector growth. It will also address policy reforms needed to improve Liberia’s investment climate.
“The business forum is about one thing, turning partnership into jobs and growth by bringing European investors and Liberian opportunities together,” Deprez said.
Signal of confidence
Deprez also pointed to recent EU budget support disbursements to Liberia as evidence of confidence in the country’s public financial management reforms. She said transparency, accountability and consistent policy implementation remain essential to attracting long-term capital.
EU officials hope the Brussels meeting will translate into concrete investment commitments capable of delivering measurable economic benefits for Liberians, she added.
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