Dr. Julien Bastrup-Birk, Secretary-General of SOCFIN, LAC’s parent company
NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – As Liberia positions itself as a premier destination for foreign investment, the Liberia Agriculture Company (LAC) is set to carry a compelling message to Europe: Liberia is open for business, abundant in opportunity, and committed to sustainable, inclusive economic growth.
Executives from LAC will participate in a high-level investment conference in Brussels, Belgium, on February 24–25, joining government officials and private-sector leaders to promote Liberia as a hub for foreign direct investment, particularly in the private sector.
LAC, one of Liberia’s longest-standing agricultural companies, has been invited to share its experience and vision for responsible, long-term investment in the country.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Dr. Julien Bastrup-Birk, Secretary-General of SOCFIN, LAC’s parent company, emphasized that the company’s participation aligns with Liberia’s broader economic strategy.
“My recent visit to Liberia focused on understanding the national vision for business and how the country plans to catalyze foreign investment,” he said. “We engaged with stakeholders across both the Executive and Legislative branches, and it is clear that the President’s ARREST policy agenda provides a strong framework for sustainable investment.”
Bastrup-Birk highlighted discussions with the Grand Bassa Legislative Caucus as particularly insightful, noting their focus on integrated, long-term development. “Their approach connects agriculture, production, road and railway infrastructure, and seaport access, creating an ecosystem that enables efficient manufacturing and export. This holistic, sustainable model—centered on job creation—is extremely promising,” he said.
At the heart of LAC’s message to international partners is Liberia’s wealth of natural resources and youthful workforce.
“Liberia is a country full of potential, with unique natural assets and a young, dynamic workforce. Investments here must be responsible and generate benefits for the country,” Bastrup-Birk said.
Since 1959, LAC has maintained a strong presence in Liberia, and the company intends not only to sustain its investment but also to expand its impact through initiatives focused on sustainability, community engagement, and professional development.
“We are exploring opportunities to work closely with smallholders and local communities, emphasizing education, healthcare, infrastructure, and professional job creation,” Bastrup-Birk noted.
LAC General Manager, Madan, emphasized the company’s commitment to strengthening Liberia’s smallholder farming sector, a cornerstone of future agricultural growth.
“Liberia has fertile land, dedicated farmers, and untapped market potential. Our strategy fully aligns with the government’s agricultural priorities, particularly in technology transfer, provision of inputs, and modern farm layout using GPS systems,” Madan explained.
Through the initiative, LAC provides free planting materials and loan-based farming tools, allowing farmers to repay gradually after harvest. The company also guarantees a market for smallholders’ produce.
“Providing technical support is only part of the solution; ensuring farmers can sell their produce is equally important. Our managers work closely with smallholders to strengthen partnerships and enhance productivity,” he added.
As the Brussels conference approaches, LAC executives remain clear on their message: Liberia offers attractive investment opportunities, but success must be rooted in shared growth, sustainability, and tangible benefits for communities.
