HARBEL, Margibi County – Market leaders and traders at the Harbel General Market have strongly opposed a decision by the Liberia Marketing Association (LMA) to increase daily market ticket fees from L$20 to L$50 per table, describing the hike as burdensome and unaffordable.
Several marketers who spoke to Verity News expressed frustration over the new fee structure, arguing that many traders struggle to make sufficient daily sales.
“We can’t afford it,” one market woman said. “Sometimes we sit in this market all day and cannot even make L$1,000.”
Another trader who sells cooking oil said the increase would significantly affect her business because she operates five tables.
“Previously, I paid L$100 a day for my five tables. With this new fee, I will have to pay L$250 every day. That is too much for us,” she lamented.
The traders also complained about the poor condition of the market facilities, particularly leaking kitchen structures, which they said have not received adequate attention despite the collection of market fees.
“Our kitchens are leaking badly, yet the association continues to increase the amount of money collected from us,” one vendor stated.
The marketers are calling on the Liberia Marketing Association and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to reconsider the decision. Others urged their elected lawmakers to intervene on their behalf and advocate for the concerns of small business owners.
Responding to the concerns, Harbel Branch Superintendent of the Liberia Marketing Association, Madam Jenneh Tucker, said the decision was made at an LMA convention held in Lofa County, where leaders agreed to increase market fees nationwide.
“This decision is above me,” Tucker explained, noting that the adjustment was approved by the association’s leadership and is not a local initiative.
According to her, the new fee structure is expected to take effect within the next one to two weeks. She encouraged marketers to begin preparing for the implementation of the increased rates.
The proposed increase has sparked growing concern among traders across Liberia, many of whom fear it could further strain already struggling businesses and reduce their ability to support their families.
