By Archie Boan
Monrovia, Liberia – The Government of Liberia is set to receive one million United States dollars from the China Union Concession Company as part-payment of millions owed under its concession agreement.
Officials of China Union appeared before the House of Representatives’ Joint Committees on Concession, Investment, and Compliance today ( August 27, 2025) to address long-standing concerns over the company’s failure to meet financial obligations to the state.
The joint committee, chaired by Representative Foday Fahnbulleh of Bong County Electoral District #7, grilled the concessionaire on issues ranging from arrears in social development funds to outstanding taxes and compliance with its contractual commitments.
According to lawmakers, China Union has accumulated significant debts over several years, prompting legislative intervention to ensure payment. The one million dollars pledged represents only a fraction of the total owed, but legislators say it signals a step toward accountability.
Rep. Fahnbulleh emphasized that Liberia can no longer afford to allow concession companies to operate without honoring their financial responsibilities. “The people of Liberia deserve full benefits from concession agreements. The House of Representatives will ensure that every cent due the government is collected,” he stated.
China Union’s representatives assured lawmakers of their commitment to gradually settle the outstanding balance before the week ends , while also citing operational challenges as reasons for delays in meeting their obligations.
Members of the Joint Committees warned, however, that failure to comply fully with the payment plan could lead to further legislative action, including possible sanctions or a review of the company’s concession contract.
The decision by China Union to pay the initial $1 million comes at a time when Liberia faces mounting revenue challenges and increasing pressure on government to strengthen oversight of concessionaires.
The Committee has promised to continue its concession review exercise to make sure that concession companies in Liberia meet up to its obligations.
