Post a comment 
Sierra Leone’s Produce Monitoring Board (PMB) and exporters in Kenema agreed in principle on a proposed overhaul of licensing fees as regulators accelerate broader reforms aimed at modernising the country’s produce sector.
The Produce Monitoring Board (PMB) said the discussions brought together exporters, principal industry actors, and representatives of the Sierra Leone Cocoa Exporters Council during a high-level engagement focused on revising the country’s licensing structure and strengthening regulatory systems.
According to PMB, stakeholders reviewed a proposed framework that would update licensing categories across the value chain, including buying agents, sub-agents, local dealers, small-scale exporters, and large-scale exporters. The board described the reforms as an effort to create a more proportionate and responsive fee system aligned with current market realities.
Officials said exporters present at the meeting signalled support for the restructuring proposal, while also urging improvements in regulatory delivery, including stronger services and better alignment with industry needs under the revised regime.
Beyond licensing fees, the talks also examined the proposed Produce Sustainability and Development Act, a draft legal framework intended to reinforce governance in the sector and support ongoing market reforms, PMB said.
Discussions further touched on quality control measures, compliance with indicative pricing rules, and cooperation between regulators and industry actors such as farmers, processors, and exporters.
A key focus was Sierra Leone’s preparedness for the European Union Deforestation Regulation, with officials highlighting the need to expand farm geolocation, strengthen producer registration systems, and accelerate digital traceability efforts to maintain access to international markets.
PMB Executive Chairman Raymond Bob Katta, according to the board, called for closer collaboration between regulators and exporters in shaping standards and systems designed to improve the competitiveness of Sierra Leone’s produce exports.
Exporters also raised operational concerns, including requests related to jute bag waivers and challenges at the Water Quay, issues PMB said are under review.
The board said consultations with stakeholders will continue as it refines the proposed licensing framework and draft legislation before final recommendations are submitted for approval.
