The Director General of the National Bureau of Concessions (NBC), Hanson S. Kiazolu, has urged the Legislature to strengthen oversight of Liberia’s rubber sector, warning that unregulated rubber trading threatens concession investments, government revenue, and thousands of jobs.
Appearing before the House of Representatives on Thursday, Kiazolu provided the Bureau’s position on concerns raised by Grand Bassa County District #5 Representative, Thomas A. Goshua, regarding the growing practice of unauthorized rubber purchases by local and foreign buyers.
Kiazolu told lawmakers that while concession companies continue to support local farmers through out-grower programs and other initiatives, illegal purchases of rubber by unregulated actors are undermining concession operations and could have serious consequences for the country’s economy.
He said the National Bureau of Concessions, as the institution responsible for monitoring concession agreements, remains committed to ensuring that investors fulfill their obligations while protecting the interests of Liberian citizens.
According to the NBC Director General, when concession companies are deprived of the raw materials needed to sustain production, the result could be declining output, reduced government revenue, and possible job losses for Liberian workers.
To address the challenge, Kiazolu presented several reform priorities, including stricter enforcement of existing regulations, full implementation of Executive Order No. 151 to encourage local processing of rubber, stronger collaboration among government institutions, protection of government revenue, and measures to safeguard both farmers and concession investments.
Following deliberations, members of the House of Representatives welcomed the Bureau’s recommendations and agreed to establish a special committee to engage stakeholders across the rubber industry. The committee is expected to work with relevant government agencies to recommend practical measures aimed at strengthening regulation and sustaining Liberia’s rubber sector.
The appearance before lawmakers highlights the National Bureau of Concessions’ increasing role in monitoring concession compliance and promoting accountability, investment protection, and sustainable economic development in Liberia.
Under Kiazolu’s leadership, the Bureau says it remains focused on ensuring that concession agreements translate into tangible benefits for Liberians through employment, revenue generation, infrastructure development, and responsible management of the country’s natural resources.
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