(JUBA) – The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) has met with international and national partners to review the salt standards applied in the country. The meeting brought together delegates from the Iodine Global Network, UNICEF and the Ministry of Health to examine how current rules can be improved to support both public health and trade.
The consultation held in Juba on 25 September was chaired by the Executive Director of SSNBS. He emphasised that the bureau’s mandate is not only to set and adopt standards but also to harmonise them with wider regional frameworks. According to the bureau, the aim is to ensure that South Sudan’s standards match those of its neighbours and global partners, which would strengthen market confidence and improve consumer safety.
The review of salt standards is particularly important for South Sudan, where iodine deficiency remains a health concern. Salt is one of the most effective carriers of iodine and, when fortified correctly, it helps to prevent a wide range of health complications. UNICEF and the Iodine Global Network have been working across the region to support governments in enforcing fortification rules and protecting public health.
The meeting was also attended by the Director General for Technical Operations and the Director for Certification and Export of SSNBS. Their participation reflected the link between health and trade, as proper certification of salt products is essential for both domestic markets and exports.
For South Sudan’s wider business environment, stronger standards mean greater trust from regional trading partners. Salt imported into or exported from the country will require certification that it meets approved health and safety measures. This step is expected to increase market competitiveness while at the same time reducing risks for consumers.
The SSNBS said that it will continue to work with health authorities and development partners to improve compliance. Strengthening the salt sector is part of broader efforts to harmonise standards across agriculture, food and industrial goods in line with regional integration goals, according to the standards body.
Issues in South Sudan Salt Standards
| Issue | Importance | Partners Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Iodine fortification in salt | Reduces health risks linked to iodine deficiency | Ministry of Health, UNICEF, Iodine Global Network |
| Certification and export rules | Builds trust for regional and international trade | SSNBS Directorate for Certification and Export |
| Harmonisation of standards | Supports regional integration and market access | SSNBS, regional blocs, international partners |