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In 2013, the authorities launched the Agenda for Prosperity, setting the pathway to middle income status by 2035. (...) The programme includes major investment projects such as the construction of a new airport on the mainland, the construction of hydroelectric dams, and the extension of agricultural irrigation projects.

Table 2.1 Main trade and investment-related legislation issued/amended/implemented since 2005
(...)
Law: Other
Environment Protection Agency Act, 2008
(...)

Sierra Leone has not been involved in any dispute case, as a complainant, respondent, or third party. In the negotiations at the WTO, Sierra Leone is a member of the ACP group, the African Group, the G-90, the LDCs, and the "W52" sponsors. [13]

[13] The "W52" sponsors support a proposal for modalities in the negotiations on geographical indications (establishing a multilateral register for wines and spirits, and extending the higher level of protection beyond wines and spirits), and for patents applicants to disclose the origin of genetic resources and traditional knowledge used in their inventions (http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dda_e/negotiating_groups_e.htm).

In accordance with the Customs Act 2011, the import or export of some products may be prohibited on the basis of, inter alia, protection of public morals; protection of human, animal, plant life or health; or protection of the environment. The authorities may restrict the exportation of some domestic materials if deemed necessary to ensure that essential quantities are available to domestic industries. Prohibition measures may also be imposed for the purpose of conservation of exhaustible natural resources.

As a party to the Montreal Protocol, Sierra Leone prohibits the import and export of products containing ozone-depleting substances. These include non-CFC-free refrigerators, air conditioners, vehicles, and aerosol products (except medical aerosols). [15] The importation of halon for firefighting is prohibited, except for the army, the police, and the airport and the port authorities. The Environmental Protection Agency may issue permits for the importation of some ozone-depleting substances if it is satisfied that the applicant has adequate facilities to handle them without causing damage to the environment. Imports and exports are allowed only if they originate in, or are to be exported to a country that is party to the Protocol.

[15] The Environment Protection Agency Act, 2008, repealing the Environment Protection Act, 2000.

In accordance with the 2011 Finance Act, importation of right-hand-drive vehicles is subject to an environmental impact assessment licence, and to a surcharge of 40% of the c.i.f. value. The 2011 Road Traffic Regulation prohibits their importation.

The authorities may implement restrictions on exports for various reasons, including health, safety, and environment-related. (...)

In accordance with the Montreal Protocol, the exportation of ozone-depleting substances is prohibited. (...)

Exports of raw logs have been banned since 2008. Due to environmental regulations, a special permit from the ministry in charge of natural resources is required for the exportation of plants and charcoal.

Table 3.5 Main investment incentives
Sector/incentive Selected requirements Legal basis
(...)
Energy
3 years' duty-free import of assembling stoves and cookers; equipment for the production of LPG; photovoltaic system equipment and energy efficient appliances that meet IEC global standards • A minimum of US$500,000 investment
• Employment of at least 50 persons Finance Act 2011; Finance Act 2016
(...)