(JUBA) – South Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Industry has formally validated a national e-commerce policy and strategy with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The move is intended to expand digital trade opportunities, strengthen private sector growth and support wider economic reforms.
E-commerce, which refers to the buying and selling of goods and services online, is increasingly viewed as an important driver of investment and innovation across East Africa. For South Sudan, the adoption of a national policy marks a new stage in efforts to build a modern and competitive economy.
Speaking at the validation workshop in Juba, Trade and Industry Undersecretary Yel Luol Kor said the government had already introduced a series of reforms to encourage openness, diversification, and industrialisation. He explained that the measures included the establishment of e-commerce hubs and new regulatory frameworks designed to allow more citizens and businesses to participate in the digital economy.
“Our country has taken important steps to liberalise its economy and accelerate industrialisation,” Luol said. “We have adopted inclusive and sustainable models that provide opportunities for all and ensure no one is left behind.”
According to Luol, these reforms have already attracted more investment, stimulated trade, and contributed to economic growth. They have also helped increase foreign direct investment inflows.
In partnership with UNDP and the Enhanced Integrated Framework, the ministry has launched a fully equipped e-commerce hub at its headquarters. The hub is designed to provide internet access, communication tools, and business development support. Officials say the facility will enable entrepreneurs, start-ups, and small enterprises to take part in digital trade.
The draft policy was shaped by consultations with stakeholders held in August 2025, alongside a review of key trade-related reports. It identifies the main barriers to e-commerce in South Sudan and sets out recommendations to help meet the objectives of the National Development Strategy.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Sheila Ngatia reaffirmed her agency’s support for South Sudan’s digital and trade transformation. She noted that UNDP had partnered with the government to launch “Dukaanye,” a digital marketplace, and had contributed to several initiatives to strengthen the country’s trade system.
“UNDP has been proud to work with the Government of South Sudan in advancing trade and digital transformation,” Ngatia said. “Together, we developed the Competition Bill to protect consumers and strengthen the productive sector.”
Ngatia added that the collaboration had also supported South Sudan’s integration into the East African Community, preparations for World Trade Organization accession, and the completion of several studies including the Trade for Peace and Resilience Report and the Diagnostic Trade Integration Study.
Policy Targets Growth in Online Trade
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Policy Objective | Promote digital trade, strengthen private sector development, and support economic diversification. |
| Key Reforms Introduced | Establishment of e-commerce hubs; new trade and industrialisation policies. |
| Infrastructure Support | Fully equipped e-commerce hub at the Ministry of Trade and Industry with internet access, communication tools, and business development services. |
| Stakeholders Involved | Ministry of Trade and Industry, UNDP, Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF), private sector, and civil society. |
| Consultation Process | Review of trade reports and national stakeholder consultations in August 2025. |
| UNDP Contributions | Development of Competition Bill and launch of “Dukaanye” marketplace support for regional integration and WTO accession. |
| Link to National Goals | Supports National Development Strategy by improving trade efficiency and financial inclusion. |
| Expected Benefits | Increased investment, foreign direct investment attraction, private sector participation, consumer protection, and access to digital markets. |
The e-commerce policy is expected to play an important role in aligning South Sudan with regional and global trade systems, while also supporting job creation and improving access to goods and services for citizens.
