Ganta, Nimba County – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has intensified efforts to strengthen Customs administration by conducting an advanced training program for Customs officers in Ganta, Nimba County. The initiative is intended to improve technical expertise, reinforce effective border controls, promote legitimate trade, and boost domestic revenue collection.
The weeklong refresher course, organized by the LRA Customs Department, is part of the Authority’s broader strategy to modernize Customs operations and invest in the continuous professional development of its workforce. The training equips officers with updated knowledge and practical skills to ensure the consistent application of Customs laws, improve operational performance, and deliver better services at Liberia’s ports and border entry points.
More than 30 Customs personnel from business offices across the country are participating in the program, alongside staff from the Communication, Media and Public Affairs Section, the Taxpayer Services Division, and the Internal Audit Department.
Training sessions focus on key areas of Customs administration, including Customs valuation, Harmonized System (HS) tariff classification, rules of origin, cargo examination techniques, and other essential operational procedures. These areas are fundamental to determining the correct duties and tariff treatment for imported goods, particularly as Liberia continues to implement regional and continental trade commitments such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
To evaluate the effectiveness of the program, participants are being assessed before and during the training to measure improvements in their understanding and application of the course material.
Addressing attendees during the opening ceremony, Assistant Commissioner for Customs Ports Operations, Edwin F. Kendema, encouraged officers to take full advantage of the training by actively participating in discussions and seeking clarification on technical issues that will enhance their professional competence.
He noted that the Authority expects the investment in staff capacity building to translate into improved technical performance, greater consistency in Customs operations, and higher-quality services for importers, Customs brokers, and other stakeholders.
Kendema further emphasized that Customs professionals must remain committed to lifelong learning, ensuring they are well-equipped with current laws, procedures, and technical expertise to provide accurate guidance and maintain high standards of service delivery.
The training is one of several initiatives under the LRA’s Customs modernization agenda, which seeks to build a more competent and accountable workforce while ensuring compliance with both national legislation and internationally recognized Customs standards.
By continuously strengthening the skills of its personnel, the LRA aims to improve trade facilitation, protect government revenue, enhance border security, and support Liberia’s long-term economic growth and national development.
