Liberia Advances Trade Standards and Food Safety with EU Supported UN Partnership

Liberia has taken an important step toward strengthening its national quality infrastructure and enabling inclusive economic growth with the commissioning of the newly renovated headquarters and laboratories of the Liberia Standards Authority (LiSA). The facility was officially inaugurated by H.E. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., marking renewed national momentum to improve market regulation, food safety, and trade competitiveness.

The intervention reflects sustained collaboration between the Government of Liberia, the European Union, and United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), aligned with national priorities to strengthen institutions, protect public health, and expand opportunities for Liberian producers in regional and global markets.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Boakai underscored the central role of standards in economic transformation and consumer protection, noting that stronger regulatory systems are essential to preventing the circulation of unsafe and substandard goods, while enabling farmers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to meet international market requirements.

Strengthening Institutions for Trade, Health and Development

Established under the 2022 Liberia Standards Authority Act, LiSA is mandated to oversee standardization, testing, and certification services. The upgraded facility enhances the Authority’s ability to deliver reliable conformity assessment services—an essential pillar for trade facilitation, food safety, and private sector confidence.

The renovation and modernization were delivered through an EU‑funded food safety initiative implemented by the UNIDO, providing comprehensive technical and infrastructure support to strengthen national systems. Investments included modern laboratory fittings, training and testing facilities, reliable water and hybrid energy systems, and institutional capacity‑building to improve service delivery and long‑term sustainability.

At the event, the United Nations reiterated that the commissioning goes beyond infrastructure, representing a strategic investment in governance, public health, and economic resilience. Strong national standards systems are a prerequisite for effective regulation, safer food systems, and expanded export opportunities—particularly for smallholder farmers and agri‑food enterprises.

Delivering Results through UN Collaboration

The commissioning of LiSA’s upgraded facilities demonstrates how coordinated UN support, aligned with government leadership and EU financing, can deliver tangible development results. It contributes directly to Liberia’s efforts to build strong institutions, promote inclusive economic growth, and advance progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the refurbished laboratories, which are expected to begin delivering enhanced testing and certification services immediately—benefiting producers, consumers, and the broader economy.