Jeety Rubber Factory: Transforming Communities and Driving Sustainable Growth in Liberia

Jeety Rubber Factory: Transforming Communities and Driving Sustainable Growth in Liberia.

Amidst the remote and economically isolated community of Weala, Margibi County, a glimmer of hope arises with the establishment of the Jeety Rubber Factory. This significant investment spearheaded by renowned Indian businessman and philanthropist, Upjit Singh Sachdeva, also known as Jeety, is revolutionizing the processing of natural rubber on an industrial scale.

With an investment totaling US$36 million, the Jeety Rubber Factory has brought a wave of renewed opportunity to the area, transforming it into a bustling hub of economic and social activity. Locals have spoken favorably about the company’s substantial investments, which have not only provided economic empowerment but have also enhanced the quality of life in the area and adjacent communities.

On April 6, a grand inauguration ceremony was held at the Jeety Rubber Factory in Cinta, Weala, Margibi County, attended by hundreds of guests, including rubber sector stakeholders, business community members, and government officials. Agriculture Minister Dr. Alexander Nuetah, standing in for President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, was also present at the event.

Roland Johnson, a prominent citizen of the area, expressed gratitude for the transformative impact of Jeety’s investment, highlighting the provision of essential services such as healthcare and food assistance to the community.

A key benefit of the company’s presence is its direct impact on local rubber farmers, providing them with a reliable source of income by purchasing their cup lumps (raw latex) for processing at the factory. This engagement ensures a steady turnover of latex harvests, sustaining farm operations and livelihoods.

The enforcement of Executive Order #124, prohibiting the export of unprocessed natural rubber from Liberia, has been instrumental in protecting farmers from theft and strengthening the relationship between farmers and processing plants like Jeety Rubber Factory.

Despite the challenges posed by limited rubber supply in Liberia, Sachdeva emphasized the positive impact of his investment on local employment and economic growth. However, calls to lift the ban on unprocessed rubber exports have sparked debates, with some advocating for fair market practices to empower smallholder farmers.

Agriculture Minister Nuetah reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing concerns raised by farmers and processors in the rubber sector, announcing the formation of a multi-agency investigative committee to probe issues surrounding the exportation of unprocessed natural rubber.

In addition to its economic contributions, Jeety Rubber Factory has also made significant strides in providing essential social services to the community, including healthcare facilities and programs for women and youth empowerment.

Jeety challenged critics accusing him of influencing the Liberian government, inviting them to provide evidence to support their claims. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the country’s “Made in Liberia” initiative and fostering sustainable growth through the production of finished rubber materials.

As discussions on the development of the rubber sector continue, Sachdeva remains open to engaging with stakeholders and addressing key challenges, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering sustainable growth and prosperity in Liberia.

In November 2023, Former President George Weah issued Executive Order #124, placing a moratorium on the export of unprocessed natural rubber from Liberia. This order encompassed various forms of unprocessed natural rubber, including natural latex, coagulum, cup lump, tree lace, bark scrap, ground scrap, and concentrated latex or dry rubber produced from rubber trees. The directive instructed Ministries such as Commerce and Industry, Finance and Development Planning, and other relevant government agencies to cease issuing export permits for unprocessed natural rubber.

Despite the challenges posed by the moratorium, stakeholders in the rubber sector continue to navigate and adapt to the evolving landscape. Jeety Rubber Factory’s commitment to adhering to local regulations while driving economic growth underscores the importance of sustainable and responsible development in Liberia.

Looking ahead, Sachdeva and other industry players remain dedicated to finding innovative solutions to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the rubber industry. By fostering collaboration between government, businesses, and local communities, they aim to create a thriving ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders and contributes to Liberia’s economic prosperity.