Liberia - Travel Report

The transitional government's authority is mainly limited to those areas patrolled by United Nations military contingents such as the capital city of Monrovia and its surrounding areas. The primary products of Liberia are rubber, coffee, cocoa, rice, cassava, palm oil and sugarcane. The primary export partners of Liberia are Germany, Italy, the United States and China. The primary import partners of Liberia are France, South Korea, Japan, and Singapore. The predominant religions are indigenous religious beliefs and Christianity, therefore, a majority of the population will celebrate indigenous religious holidays and Christian traditional holidays. Sums in excess of $10,000 (US) must be reported at the port of entry and no more than $7,500 (US) in foreign currency banknotes can be moved out of the country at one time. Larger sums must be transferred via bank drafts, travelers checks or similar financial instruments. Individuals without a Liberian bank account are limited to no more than two outgoing $5,000 (US) over-the-counter (cash) wire transfers per month. The use of travelers checks is subject to substantial fees, and few commercial establishments accept travelers checks. ATMs are unavailable, and credit/debit cards are not accepted anywhere in Liberia. Wire transfers through Western Union and some banks are available, but they are subject to substantial fees. The Liberian dollar is linked to the U.S. dollar. Taking photographs of military installations, air and seaports, and important government buildings is restricted. Lodging, fuel, transportation, and telephone services are unevenly available in Liberia.