By Sabri Dibaco
The Ministry of Trade and Industry held a consultative meeting with members of the business community to discuss major challenges affecting trade and industrial activities.
In a press statement extended to the media, the discussions focused on pressing issues facing traders and investors.
Among the issues discussed were high taxation and multiple levies imposed on businesses, instability in foreign exchange rates, and delays at border points and customs clearance procedures.
Others included a lack of reliable electricity supply and the influx of counterfeit and substandard goods into local markets.
“The discussions focused on several major challenges affecting the trade and industrial sectors, including high taxation and multiple levies imposed on traders and businesses, instability in foreign exchange rates, delays at border points and customs clearance procedures, lack of reliable electricity supply, influx of counterfeit and substandard goods into local markets,” the statement reads
Representatives of the business community expressed concern that these challenges continue to increase operational costs and negatively affect the growth of the private sector and the availability of goods in the market.
During the meeting, the business community submitted a written document to the minister containing detailed concerns and recommendations aimed at improving the business environment in South Sudan.
On her part, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Magret Labanya, assured traders and investors that the Ministry would work closely with relevant government institutions to address the concerns raised and improve the overall business climate in the country.
The minister emphasised the government’s commitment to promoting a conducive environment for investment, trade, and industrial development, noting that cooperation between the public and private sectors is essential for economic growth and stability.
South Sudan’s trade and industrial sectors continue to face significant challenges due to economic instability, fluctuating exchange rates, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to reliable services such as electricity and transportation.
Business operators have repeatedly called for reforms to simplify taxation systems, strengthen border management, and protect local markets from counterfeit products.
The consultative meeting is part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Trade and Industry to engage stakeholders and identify practical solutions aimed at revitalising the economy and supporting private sector development.