MONROVIA – The National Customs Brokers Association of Liberia (NCBAL) has sounded an alarm over what it describes as “unjustified and exorbitant” fees imposed on the importation of heavy equipment by GTMS Liberia Limited, the firm managing the country’s Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) System.
By Christopher C. Walker 0777898224/0886723075 christopherc.walker@frontpageafricaonline.com
Addressing journalists and trade stakeholders on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, NCBAL President James Hinneh revealed a staggering spike in clearance costs.
Mr. Hinneh alleges that brokers are now being billed between $5,000 and $20,000 USD for equipment that historically carried a standard fee of just $190 USD.
“These charges are unreasonable, arbitrary, and run contrary to internationally recognized shipping practices,” Mr. Hinneh stated.
He warned that the current fee structure poses a direct threat to legitimate trade and risks destabilizing Liberia’s fragile business environment.
Disputes Over Cargo Classification
The controversy centers largely on the classification of specialized shipping equipment.
Mr. Hinneh argued that “flat racks,” specialized containers used for oversized loads, must be classified according to global maritime standards.
He further emphasized that rolling cargo should strictly be categorized as Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO).
“Even if these items were considered loose cargo, GTMS is not a cargo-handling company,” Mr. Hinneh clarified.
He noted that while APM Terminals and various shipping lines remain responsible for the physical transport and handling of goods, they do not impose such “excessive” charges.
Allegations of Mandate Creep
The Association further accused GTMS of overstepping its contractual boundaries.
According to the NCBAL, the company’s mandate is limited to assisting the National Port Authority (NPA) in monitoring cargo movement under International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) regulations.
Mr. Hinneh asserted that GTMS lacks the legal authority to function as a cargo handler, carrier, or inspection agency, and therefore has no right to levy fees beyond those stipulated in its official contract with the government.
Call for Resistance and Transparency
In a bold move, the NCBAL is urging its members to resist any charges exceeding the standard $190 USD fee, including a newly introduced $15 USD “express fee.”
“We are calling for a collaborative, timely, and transparent review of cargo classifications,” Mr. Hinneh said.
“The lack of transparency is creating a bottleneck that the Liberian economy cannot afford.”
Ministry of Commerce Under Fire
The NCBAL did not reserve its criticism for GTMS alone. The Association launched a scathing critique of the Ministry of Commerce, accusing the sector Minister of deliberately creating delays that undermine trade facilitation.
The Association highlighted three primary grievances against the Ministry:
Persistent Delays: Significant lags in the signing of Import Permit Declarations (IPDs) for essential commodities, and a communication breakdown.
Allegations that the Minister has ignored official correspondence and direct messages, despite “read receipts” indicating the messages were seen.
Digitization Roadblocks: A refusal to transition the IPD system to an online platform, a move the NCBAL claims centralizes control and creates unnecessary bureaucracy.
“These actions are an embarrassment to the trading community and undermine Liberia’s credibility as a transparent, business-friendly environment,” Mr. Hinneh added.
While reaffirming its commitment to trade cooperation, the NCBAL warned that its patience is wearing thin. The Association signaled that “public action” may be the next step if the government fails to intervene.
The brokers are calling on the Executive and relevant oversight authorities to act swiftly to restore accountability and confidence in Liberia’s port and trade processes.
The post Liberia: Customs Brokers Slam GTMS Over ‘Exorbitant’ Fees, Accuse Commerce and Industry Ministry of Stifling Trade appeared first on FrontPageAfrica.
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