Liberia: President Joseph Boakai suspends customs duties on solar equipment to accelerate rural electrification -

On August 27, 2026, President Joseph Boakai signed an executive order renewing the suspension of customs duties on a range of solar products and equipment intended for off-grid electrification and the development of renewable energy. Executive Order No. 168, titled “Solar Renewable Energy Products,” aims to facilitate access to solar technologies, particularly in areas of Liberia not yet connected to the power grid.

The measure applies exclusively to solar renewable energy products, equipment, components, and accessories listed in the decree’s annex, based on their Harmonized System (HS) codes. However, beneficiaries remain subject to the Goods and Services Tax (GST), customs usage fees (CUF), and, where applicable, the ECOWAS trade levy. Other taxes and legal obligations not expressly suspended remain in effect.

To qualify for this exemption, importers must be registered with the Liberia Business Registry and operate in the renewable energy sector. They must also be registered with the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency (RREA) when required to do so, and comply with applicable import procedures and technical, health, and environmental standards.

The decree draws a strict distinction: only products expressly listed in the annex are eligible. The mere fact that a product is marketed as “solar” or “renewable” is not sufficient to qualify for the suspension. In case of doubt, the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) will make a determination in consultation with the relevant authorities.

In terms of implementation, the LRA is responsible for enforcing the suspension and ensuring its uniform application at the country’s various ports of entry. The RREA will be required to maintain a registry of eligible products and beneficiaries. The national standards authority will ensure that products comply with technical regulations.

The government also intends to prevent abuse. Any individual or business found guilty of misclassification, document falsification, or any other fraudulent practice is subject to the penalties provided for by law. Post-clearance audits, inspections, and investigations may be conducted.

The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, in collaboration with the relevant institutions, shall monitor the implementation and the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of the measure, particularly its contribution to expanding access to renewable energy and rural electrification. The decree takes effect immediately and will remain in force for one year, unless amended or repealed earlier by a new decree or by an applicable law.

TheHatLady