Liberia is exploring new opportunities to promote its coffee industry and expand access to international markets following a meeting between Liberia’s Embassy near Paris and the Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products (AVPA). The meeting focused on Liberia’s possible participation in the upcoming International Roasted Coffee Contest and award ceremony, which will be held during the Paris Coffee Show.
The initiative aims to showcase the quality of Liberian coffee while creating new opportunities for local farmers and producers.
Speaking during the discussion, Liberia’s Ambassador to France, Dr. Teeko Tozay Yorlay Sr., said Liberia is committed to building partnerships that support farmers, improve agricultural production, and increase value-added products.
He noted that agriculture remains an important sector for economic growth and community development.
“Liberia is keen to cultivate partnerships that create opportunities for our farmers and producers, enhance value addition, and strengthen the agricultural sector as a key pillar of national development,” Ambassador Yorlay said.
AVPA Chief Operating Officer Ksenia Hleap welcomed Liberia’s interest in the competition and highlighted the importance of giving local coffee producers greater international exposure.
She described Liberian roasted coffee as a product with strong potential in global markets.
According to Ms. Hleap, participation in the competition would allow Liberian coffee producers to showcase their products, connect with international buyers, and benefit from training opportunities that can improve quality and competitiveness.
The discussions also explored technical support for coffee farmers, market-linkage opportunities, and ways to strengthen Liberia’s coffee value chain.
Participants agreed that greater international recognition could help increase income opportunities for producers and farming communities.
Ambassador Yorlay stressed the need for collaboration among AVPA, Liberia’s Ministry of Agriculture, and local coffee producers to ensure strong participation in the competition.
He said such partnerships can help connect Liberian farmers with investors and new export markets.
Ms. Hleap further recommended organizing a local award program in Liberia to encourage more farmers and producers to participate.
She pointed to successful experiences in other African countries where coffee farmers received training and gained access to international markets.
As a next step, AVPA is expected to formally invite Liberian coffee farmers and producers to participate in the competition and provide details on the application process.
Stakeholders believe the initiative could help increase the visibility of Liberian coffee while creating new opportunities for agricultural growth, job creation, and community development across the country.
