Monrovia, Liberia – Bong County Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr. has praised President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for endorsing sweeping reforms to Liberia’s petroleum pricing system and storage fee structures ~ changes that are projected to generate millions in revenue and improve public services.
Speaking at a press conference in Monrovia on Tuesday, Senator Moye described the President’s recent policy moves as a “significant milestone” in the government’s efforts to enhance transparency, improve public service delivery, and strengthen the financial footing of key state institutions.
Presidential Mandate Targets Sector Reform
The reforms follow a directive issued by President Boakai on September 3, 2025, instructing the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) to adopt new pricing mechanisms recommended by the Legislature. The changes, according to Moye, are based on findings from legislative investigations which determined that previous storage fees were excessively high.
“These adjustments will not only make the sector more efficient but will also establish two critical revenue streams for underfunded state-owned enterprises,” Moye said.
According to projections, the revised petroleum pricing structure is expected to yield approximately US$4.5 million in government revenue between September and December 25, 2025. This estimate is based on the anticipated arrival of 50 million gallons of gasoline at storage terminals across the country.
Public Health and Infrastructure to Benefit
Moye also announced the introduction of a two-cent surcharge per gallon of gasoline sold at retail stations, which will be directed toward public health initiatives. This additional fee is projected to raise just over US$1 million for the purchase of essential medications, particularly for individuals living with HIV and tuberculosis.
The larger US$4.5 million windfall will be used to maintain 285 pieces of heavy-duty equipment ~ commonly referred to as “yellow machines” ~ earmarked for rural infrastructure development projects. The equipment is expected to arrive in Liberia by late 2025.
Bility Condemns Fee Reduction
However, the reform measures have not been without criticism.
Nimba County District #7 Representative Musa Hassan Bility has openly condemned the decision to reduce storage fees paid to local petroleum terminal operators ~ from 35 cents to just 2 cents per gallon ~ claiming the move unfairly advantages the LPRC at the expense of Liberian-owned businesses.
In a press release issued Tuesday, Bility ~ who also serves as CEO of Srimex Oil and Gas Company ~ warned that the policy shift threatens energy security, job creation, and private investment in the sector.
“This is a deliberate attempt to cripple Liberian entrepreneurs,” Bility said, urging the government to reconsider the decision and initiate transparent consultations with affected stakeholders.
Outlook
While President Boakai’s backing of the petroleum reforms has drawn applause from lawmakers like Senator Moye, it has also ignited debate over the balance between public-sector efficiency and private-sector participation.
Observers say the coming months will be key in determining how these reforms are implemented ~ and whether they can deliver on promises of economic growth, accountability, and improved services for the Liberian people.
