(JUBA / MOMBASA) – Cargo destined for South Sudan has been stalled at the Port of Mombasa and container freight stations after clearing and forwarding agents suspended operations in protest over a new tracking charge of $3,580 (25,318,000 SSP) per container.
The move follows the waiver of the $5,000 (35,500,000 SSP) container deposit fee by the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA), a measure intended to reduce the cost of doing business for South Sudanese traders. Transporters and clearing agents say the new levy increases freight costs while exposing them to the risk of container losses.
Roy Mwanthi, representing Mombasa-based agents, criticised the South Sudan government for failing to consult industry stakeholders before implementing the charge. “We were shocked to get the communication from South Sudan Revenue Authority Commissioner-General William Kuol even without consulting us,” he said.
A notice dated 17 November 2025 informed shippers, clearing agents, and transporters handling South Sudan cargo about the new charge. Previously, the container deposit acted as security to ensure containers were returned. With the abolition of this fee, many cargo handlers fear losing containers, which are sometimes converted into shops or residences once in South Sudan.
John Mwangi, a Mombasa-based clearing and forwarding agent, said: “The removal of the fees is advantageous to South Sudan traders but puts shippers and clearing and forwarding agents at risk of losses since container return or in good condition is not assured.”
SSRA has also introduced a mandatory digital tracking system requiring a Maritime Container Release One-Time Password (OTP) for all South Sudan-bound cargo. Commissioner-General Kuol said the OTP system is designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and traceability under the Digital Tracking System (DTS). “All transporters, shipping lines, freight forwarders, clearing and forwarding agents are further advised that no cargo destined for South Sudan shall be released from the port of Mombasa without a valid OTP,” he said.
The South Sudan government intends the policy changes to increase the 1.5 million tonnes of cargo currently handled through Mombasa annually by lowering costs for traders. However, cargo handlers warn that without safeguards to ensure containers are returned, many will be abandoned once they reach South Sudan.
Agents argue that the new fee is excessively high and could negatively affect regional trade between Kenya and South Sudan. They have warned that the policy may cause significant cargo delays and financial losses for traders, calling on authorities to intervene and resolve the dispute.
Cargo Fees and Policies: South Sudan Traders Gain, Shippers Exposed
| Item | Previous Fee | New Fee / Status | Equivalent in SSP | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tracking Charge | Not applicable | $3,580 | 25,318,000 SSP | Introduced without consultation; service suspension followed |
| Container Deposit Fee | $5,000 | Removed | 35,500,000 SSP | Previously ensured container return; abolition exposes shippers to loss |
| Cargo Volume | 1.5 million tonnes | No change | N/A | Policy aims to increase throughput by lowering costs |
| Digital Tracking Requirement | Not applicable | OTP via DTS | N/A | Mandatory for all cargo release to South Sudan |