Finance

SSNBS Disposes Substandard Imports

Published

4 weeks ago

April 12, 2025

Substandard Grain Shipment Intercepted at Nimule Border Post

The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) has intercepted a large shipment of substandard grain at the Nimule border post. The shipment, which included four tons of yellow peas and maize, was attempting to enter South Sudan but failed to meet the required safety and quality standards.

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The Inspection Process

The consignment underwent a thorough inspection and conformity assessment, including laboratory testing based on East African Standards (EAS). Ashgan Paulina Edward, the Acting Director General for Technical Operation at SSNBS, explained that the results of the inspection revealed that the grains were physically damaged, contained high levels of impurities and foreign materials, and showed signs of spoilage.

Reasons for Rejection

The grain shipment was rejected due to its poor quality, which made it unfit for human consumption. The SSNBS found that the grains had a high level of insect infestation, and even the heart of the seed had no value. The shipment was officially classified as non-compliant and was dumped at the Nimule border post.

Concerns Over Safety and Quality

The SSNBS is concerned about the safety and quality of goods entering the country, even if they are donated. The regulatory body is urging all importers and traders to strictly comply with both national and regional standards and to fully cooperate in ongoing quality control efforts.

Previous Incidents

This is not the first time the SSNBS has raised concerns over the safety standard of imported goods. Previously, the regulatory body had impounded tons of goods from Uganda due to the presence of dangerous chemicals. In January 2024, Uganda and South Sudan’s bureau of standards resolved to jointly clamp down on cross-border trade in counterfeit goods.

Conclusion

The interception of the substandard grain shipment at the Nimule border post highlights the importance of strict quality control measures in ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers. The SSNBS will continue to work tirelessly to prevent the entry of substandard goods into the country, and importers and traders must comply with the required standards to avoid rejection and dumping of their goods.

Finance

Kiir supports the recommendations of the 17 Trade Forum

Published

13 hours ago

May 9, 2025

Peter James

Kiir supports the recommendations of the 17 Trade Forum

The First National Trade Forum in South Sudan: A Step Towards Economic Recovery

Introduction

President Salva Kiir has endorsed the 17 recommendations adopted at South Sudan’s First National Trade Forum ended in Juba last month. The forum came out with several resolutions, including connecting affordable and consistent electricity across the country, removal of illegal checkpoints, and initiation of legal system reforms to support businesses, and better loan accessibility for locals.

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Focus on Economic Growth

The forum, organized by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, focused on fostering economic growth, attracting investment, and improving South Sudan’s business environment. The goal was to create a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive and contribute to the country’s overall economic development.

President Kiir’s Commitment

In his remarks after receiving the document from Minister Atong Kuol Manyang, President Kiir acknowledged the concerns and assured the business community of the government’s commitment to supporting reforms that reduce trade barriers, stabilize markets, and restore investor confidence. He emphasized the importance of empowering local traders and urged the Ministry to prioritize policies that benefit the broader population and stimulate economic growth.

National Trade Forum Launch

On 24 April 2025, South Sudan launched its first National Trade Forum, convening investors from the private and public sectors to brainstorm ways to address the country’s persistent economic challenges. The two-day event held under the theme Understanding Private Sector Challenges and Solutions on Matters that Affect the Business Environment for Sustainable Consultation.

Key Challenges Identified

During her opening remarks at the forum, Minister Atong identified weak information technology, inadequate infrastructure, and ongoing conflict as key drivers of economic instability in the East African nation. She also highlighted illegal taxes and excessive roadblocks as key issues undermining economic stability. These barriers have been causing traders to raise commodity prices to offset their losses, further reducing the purchasing power of ordinary citizens.

Conclusion

The First National Trade Forum in South Sudan marks a significant step towards economic recovery and growth in the country. By addressing key challenges, fostering investment, and implementing reforms to support businesses, the government is paving the way for a more prosperous future for all South Sudanese. With a commitment to empowering local traders and prioritizing policies that benefit the broader population, the forum sets a positive tone for the country’s economic development.

Finance

Water prices to increase by 50% announces water purification companies

Published

1 day ago

May 8, 2025

Peter James

Water prices to increase by 50% announces water purification companies

Water Prices in Juba Spike by 50% Due to Rising Production Costs

Reasons Behind the Price Hike

The Water Abstraction Company Association Group has increased water prices by 50% in Juba.
This hike is attributed to the high cost of production, including electricity and water purification chemicals.
The rising exchange rate of the U.S. dollar has also impacted the cost of production.

Impact on Consumers

Consumers in Juba now face almost double the initial price imposed by private water distribution companies.
A 30-drum tanker truck that used to sell at SSP28,000 is now SSP42,000.
A tanker truck with a capacity of 15 drums that initially sold at SSP13,000 is now SSP21,000.
This represents a 50% hike in less than two months.

Concerns and Reactions

SSUWC Director Yar Paul Kuol emphasized that selling water at the previous price would lead to operational losses.
Edmond Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO, called on the government to intervene for the welfare of citizens.
Yakani questioned the sharp increase in water prices due to electricity costs and access to hard currency.

Government Intervention Needed

With the sharp increase in water prices affecting consumers in Juba, there is a need for government intervention.
Yakani urged the leadership at various levels to review the issue of water price hikes blamed on electricity costs.
The access to hard currency should not create an economic burden for the residents of Juba.

Conclusion

The spike in water prices in Juba has put a strain on consumers, with prices almost doubling in a short period.
The reasons behind the price hike, including high production costs and the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar, have impacted the affordability of water for residents.
Government intervention is needed to address the issue and ensure the welfare of citizens in Juba.