(Juba) – The Ministry of Trade and Industry of South Sudan is considering the introduction of a new digital payment system that would modernise the country’s trade licensing process. The proposal was formally presented on Thursday, 26 June 2025, by a delegation from Crawford Capital to senior government officials in Juba.
The system, referred to as the Mobile Payment E-System, aims to simplify the process for applying and paying for import and export licences, certificates, and related services. It is part of broader efforts to reduce paperwork and improve the transparency and efficiency of trade operations in South Sudan.
Present at the meeting were the National Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk; Technical Advisor Hon. Simon Nyang; Undersecretary Hon. Ustaz Yel Luol; and Director Generals from various departments within the ministry. The Crawford Capital team was led by IT specialist Mr. Bul Mawat Khoriom, who outlined the technical features and advantages of the proposed platform.
According to the Crawford team, the digital system would allow businesses to handle trade documents and payments electronically, reducing time, physical travel, and potential irregularities in the licensing process. If approved, it could significantly increase trust in government procedures and improve service delivery in one of South Sudan’s key economic sectors.
Minister Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk welcomed the presentation, highlighting its potential to support trade development and administrative reform. However, she stressed that the proposal would undergo a thorough review by the Directorate of External Trade before any decision is made. She added that adjustments may be needed to ensure the system fully meets national requirements and is harmonised across departments.
During the same meeting, the Ministry also addressed internal concerns that had surfaced regarding the leadership of the Directorate of External Trade. Technical Advisor Hon. Anei, who previously served as Undersecretary, stated that any past issues had been resolved and urged staff not to revive outdated claims. He called on personnel to remain focused on institutional development rather than individual disagreements.
Undersecretary Hon. Ustaz Yel Luol supported these remarks, sharing his own experience in various senior roles, including in the Ministry of Investment and the Office of the President. He encouraged staff to accept administrative changes as part of public service life and to maintain professionalism in all duties.
The Ministry believes that the adoption of digital systems like the Mobile Payment E-System could strengthen South Sudan’s business environment by reducing bureaucracy and supporting better coordination between government agencies and the private sector.
While no official costs have been disclosed, the system could potentially lower the burden on traders and businesses who currently face delays and inefficiencies in the manual application process. Improved licensing procedures may also help increase government revenue by ensuring timely and accurate payment of fees.
As of now, 1 US Dollar is valued at approximately 4,600 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP). Digitised systems are expected to minimise cash handling and offer secure online options, particularly beneficial in remote areas where banking services are limited.
The proposal remains under review and no timeline for implementation has been confirmed. However, it reflects a growing interest in digital innovation to support economic governance and trade facilitation in South Sudan.
