[Monday, May 13, 2024] – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) is delighted over the election of one of its esteemed staff members, Abraham Siaffa, as the Vice Chairperson for the Permanent Technical Committee at the World Customs Organization (WCO). Mr. Siaffa, currently serving as the Manager for the Customs Risk and Intelligence Unit at the LRA, was recently elected to the prestigious position for a term of one year, in accordance with the guidelines set by the WCO.

The Executive Management of the LRA has applauded Mr. Siaffa for his unwavering dedication and commitment to duty, which has now been recognized on the international stage, urging him to continue his focused efforts in the collection of revenue for Liberia. AS Vice of the Permanent Technical Committee (PTC) at the WCO, Siaffa and others are entrusted with the task of promoting, developing, and administering trade facilitation instruments and tools, aligned with the objectives outlined in the WCO Strategic Plan.

Mr. Siaffa will diligently work along with multinationals to introduce and champion initiatives aimed at enhancing Customs effectiveness through the utilization of information technology and electronic commerce, employing various tools to streamline trade processes, particularly in measuring the time required for the release of goods. Mr. Siaffa regards his election to the WCO’s permanent technical committee as a significant milestone, placing Liberia at the forefront of discussions concerning the enhancement of customs procedures and the innovation of technological solutions to bolster trade facilitation.

“This election signifies Liberia’s pivotal role in shaping policies, strategies, and standards pertaining to international customs practices and procedures. It reflects confidence in Liberia’s expertise in customs administration and its dedication to international cooperation in trade facilitation and security,” Mr. Siaffa remarked.

In his capacity as Vice Chair, Mr. Siaffa is specifically tasked with collaborating, promoting collaborative projects, and exchanging information and experiences with international, governmental, and non-governmental organizations, as well as business/private sector associations, on matters related to Customs procedures and trade facilitation.