The Republic of Liberia becomes the third African country to introduce a carbon levy on maritime shipping, after Djibouti’s and Gabon’s domestic implementation. Starting on March 1 this year, the country will impose a USD 25 per tonne fee on CO2 emitted by ships entering and leaving its ports.

The implementation of this regulation will levy additional costs on carbon-intensive maritime activities, thereby internalizing the environmental impact of harmful emissions. This measure is designed to incentivize shipping operators utilizing cleaner, more efficient, and low-carbon technologies, promoting a more sustainable maritime industry.

The Carbon Markets Authority of Liberia is spearheading this initiative, ensuring the regulation is implemented efficiently and effectively. Launched in October 2025 under the Executive Order of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., the Authority underscores the country’s commitment to advancing climate action and sustainable development, while paving the way for active participation in global carbon markets.

This creates additional opportunities for Liberia to strengthen domestic carbon markets, as the Carbon Markets Authority continues to coordinate with relevant ministries and the private sector to design and implement carbon-related projects across key sectors, including forestry, the blue economy, renewable energy, agriculture, waste management, and urban development.

Liberia’s proposed maritime carbon levy represents a forward-thinking and progressive initiative, particularly at a time when the International Maritime Organization has paused discussions on a global decarbonization framework, including an international carbon levy. By taking early steps to price carbon in the maritime sector, Liberia sets a precedent for innovation and sustainability across CVF-V20 member states, while reinforcing its commitment to the global transition toward a low-carbon economy.