(LINA) - Commerce Minister Axel Addy is urging Liberians to prioritize small business entities by financially empowering local businesses through the purchase of home-made commodities.

Minister Addy said supporting Liberian-owned businesses by both government and ordinary citizens would enhance economic growth and a sustainable local trade system that will enhance the Liberianization policy.

He made the statement Thursday at the regular Ministry of Information press conference held at the ministry in Monrovia.

Minister Addy disclosed that in an effort to enhance small businesses in the country, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is working to make effective the Small Business Empowerment Act.

According to the Commerce Minister, the primary objective of the Act is to bring small businesses, especially Liberian-owned businesses, into the mainstream of the economy.

He said this will also be done through the provision of assistance by government to small businesses to enable them to expand.

Meanwhile, Minister Addy has also disclosed that Liberia is making gradual progress in becoming a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

He said becoming a member of the WTO will afford Liberia the opportunity to become a predictable destination for further trade and investment activities.
LINA