MONROVIA – Frozen foods are integral to the Liberian diet, providing essential nutrients through a variety of proteins and other products. With the rising demand and challenges posed by domestic production capacities, it is crucial to ensure that these foods are safe, affordable, and of high quality. Therefore, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is pleased to announce the launch of new administrative guidelines for all frozen foods imported into Liberia.
These guidelines, which take effect August 1, 2024, are designed to enhance food safety, ensure quality, and promote fair market practices in the frozen food sector, which is vital for the nutritional well-being of the population. Objectives: The key objective of these guidelines is to create a robust framework that facilitates the importation, storage, distribution, and sale of frozen foods in Liberia. They are also aimed at upholding the highest standards of safety and quality, supporting economic development, protecting the environment, and contributing positively to the health and wellbeing of the Liberian population.
The guidelines in summary
- Mandatory Legal Compliance: All importers must comply with business registration, tax, labor, and immigration laws in Liberia, where applicable. 2. Import Permit Declaration Compliance: All importers must have an approved import permit declaration form from the Ministry prior to the importation of their products. 3. Health and Safety Standards: Imported frozen foods must come with health and safety certifications from recognized international authorities, ensuring they are free from harmful substances.
- Storage and Transportation: Importers must maintain a strict cold chain from origin to distribution in Liberia and use certified storage facilities. 5. Traceability and Labeling: Products must be clearly labeled with batch numbers, production and expiration dates, nutritional information, storage instructions, and potential allergens. 6. Disposal of Spoiled Products: Importers are required to have plans in place for the management of spoilage and designated disposal sites for expired products, consistent with the Environmental Protection Agency’s Standards, where necessary.
- Consumer Education and Awareness: The Ministry in collaboration with relevant sector institutions will provide handling instructions and initiate public health campaigns to educate consumers and importers about the risks associated with improper handling of frozen foods. 8. Environmental Compliance: Importers are encouraged to use recyclable or biodegradable packaging and renewable energy sources for refrigeration.
- Market Stability and Fair Pricing: A monitoring system will be established to ensure fair pricing, and measures will be put in place to support SMEs and prevent market monopolization. Commitment to Public Health and Fair Trade These guidelines reflect our commitment to public health and fair-trade practices. The Ministry urges all stakeholders to adhere to these regulations to help ensure that frozen foods in Liberia are safe, affordable, and of the highest quality. For further information on the detailed guidelines, you can obtain it on the website of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry at the following link: www.moci.gov.lr.
