(JUBA COUNTY) – The Ministry of Trade and Industry of South Sudan has launched an investigation into Shaba General Trading Company following reports of unauthorised shisha imports. The inspection, conducted by Minister Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk on December 18, 2025, was unscheduled and included the Undersecretary Hon. Ustaz Yel Luol Koor, the Director General of External Trade, and other senior officials.
The visit was prompted by information that Shaba General Trading, a subsidiary of Ezra Group, imported shisha products without the Ministry’s authorisation. The company is licensed only to import certain tobacco products and cigarettes.
During discussions with the company’s Managing Director, officials confirmed that Shaba General Trading had breached its legal mandate. The company had brought shisha products into the South Sudanese market without seeking the required approvals, violating national import regulations.
The Ministry is currently reviewing the investigation findings to determine appropriate measures. Under South Sudan’s import and export laws, authorities may:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Financial penalties | Imposing substantial fines for regulatory violations |
| Business suspension | Temporarily or permanently halting company operations |
| Seizure of goods | Confiscating unauthorised imported inventory |
The Ministry emphasised its commitment to enforcing trade regulations. “All trading entities must operate within the law. Circumventing Ministry procedures undermines national regulations and will face strict action,” officials stated.
A final decision on penalties for Shaba General Trading is expected in the coming days.
