MONROVIA — Liberia is advancing a proposed US$18 million investment in a natural rubber processing and manufacturing facility in Bong County, in a move aimed at creating jobs and increasing value addition in the agricultural sector.

The proposed project, submitted for legislative review, is expected to process natural rubber and manufacture a range of products including rubber goods, cocoa powder, wood products, and rain boots. It could create approximately 300 direct jobs.

Economic analysts say the investment could help Liberia move beyond the export of raw agricultural commodities. Local processing would create stronger links between farmers, manufacturers, suppliers, and domestic businesses while supporting industrial development.

The project also comes as the government promotes greater value addition and local manufacturing as part of its wider economic development agenda.

Business leaders believe investments in processing facilities can help create employment, strengthen supply chains, and improve Liberia’s ability to benefit from its agricultural resources.

The proposed Bong County facility could become an important step in Liberia’s effort to expand manufacturing and build a more value-added agricultural economy.