(JUBA) – The South Sudan Revenue Authority has urged businesses to work with government as it introduces a digital stamp system aimed at tightening tax collection and reducing illegal trade.
Commissioner General Simon Akuei Deng made the appeal during the third national workshop on Digital Tax Stamps held in Juba on Friday. The meeting brought together revenue officials, manufacturing firms, traders and other stakeholders to discuss how the system will be implemented.
The digital stamp model places scannable codes on products such as alcohol, tobacco, cooking oil and other goods that carry excise or import tax. The codes allow officials to track the movement of products from factories to the retail market, making it difficult for companies to avoid paying taxes.
Mr Deng said the aim is not only to increase revenue but also to level the playing field for businesses that follow the rules. He added that digital systems are now used globally to prevent smuggling and fake goods, and South Sudan should not remain behind.
By moving from manual checks to digital tracking, the authority hopes to close gaps where taxes are lost through undeclared goods or forged receipts. Officials believe the system will bring stability to national finances while giving compliant businesses a clear record with government.
Participants at the workshop raised questions about cost, internet connectivity and training, but most agreed that a modern system is needed as the economy moves towards regional integration.
The Revenue Authority did not release the estimated budget of the project. However, previous digital systems in neighbouring countries have cost amounts equivalent to between 355 million SSP and 710 million SSP, equal to 50,000 USD to 100,000 USD, depending on scale and technology.
A simple table below shows the common types of goods likely to be included in the first phase of the rollout:
| Product Category | Current Tax Type | Reason for Digital Stamp |
|---|---|---|
| Alcoholic Drinks | Excise Duty | High risk of smuggling and counterfeits |
| Tobacco Products | Excise Duty | Health regulation and revenue protection |
| Cooking Oil | Import Tax | Large market volume and leakages |
| Bottled Soft Drinks | Excise Duty | Widely circulated, easy to track |
Mr Deng said that success will depend on cooperation between tax authorities and private operators, since proper marking must take place at the point of production or import. He promised further sensitisation meetings before final enforcement begins.
Many traders say they support the idea in principle but want to be sure the system will not slow down business or become another burden of paperwork.
Analysts note that if the programme is implemented with fairness and clarity, it could improve both government cash flow and South Sudan’s reputation among regional partners who already use digital compliance tools.
The Revenue Authority is expected to announce the official start date once consultations with manufacturers and importers are complete.