Liberian construction contractors urge President Boakai to expand local project access

The Association of Liberian Construction Contractors (ALCC) has issued an open letter to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, requesting intervention regarding the exclusion of local firms from public infrastructure projects. The association, led by President Kimberly K. Toure, argues that qualified Liberian-owned companies are frequently bypassed in favor of foreign-owned firms.

While the ALCC stated it does not oppose foreign contractors due to their capital and expertise, it emphasized that the national infrastructure agenda should provide opportunities for domestic companies to create jobs and retain wealth within the local economy.

The association also highlighted the significant financial burden placed on local contractors to maintain regulatory compliance. According to the ALCC, a single firm may spend at least US$2,202.50 on registration and certification fees alone, including costs for the Liberia Business Registry and the Ministry of Public Works, even when they do not hold active government contracts.