(JUBA) – The Ministry of Trade and Industry has taken steps to address the ongoing trade crisis affecting South Sudanese traders at the Mombasa Port. Minister Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang held a high level meeting with business leaders and key stakeholders in Juba on November 8, 2025, to discuss solutions to the delays and challenges impacting trade.
The meeting included prominent figures such as Hon. Ladu Lukak, Chairperson of the Chamber of Commerce; Hon. Ustaz Yel Luol Koor, Undersecretary for Trade; Hon. Simon Nyang, Technical Advisor; and representatives from clearance and forwarding agencies.
Hon. Ladu Lukak thanked the Minister for the timely initiative, urging stronger cooperation between government bodies including the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ministry of Finance and Planning, Ministry of Transport, and the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA). He stressed the need for immediate action on transporters, shipping lines, and clearance agents.
Minister Atong Kuol Manyang expressed concern for the traders and their impounded goods. She said, “As the concerned Ministry, we must call for urgent measures to ensure that we arrive at concrete solutions.” She also announced the abolition of the $3,850 container tracking fees, also known as the One Time Pass-Word (OTP) fees, providing immediate relief for traders.
The Minister further indicated that she would raise broader issues of taxes and levies with the Ministers of Finance and Transport. She also acknowledged the importance of reviewing illegal fees highlighted by the Chairperson of the Specialist Committee on Trade in the National Legislative Assembly.
In her closing remarks, Minister Atong stated that she had briefed the Vice President of the Economic Cluster, Dr. James Wani Igga, on the severity of the traders’ challenges. She added, “A committee will be formed immediately to review tax levies in accordance with the Financial Act of South Sudan. I will also tour and inspect all major trade areas to ensure traders receive support and efficiency is improved.”
The move is expected to provide relief to traders facing delays at Mombasa Port and improve trade flows for South Sudan, which relies heavily on imports and exports passing through the Kenyan port.
Mombasa Port Trade Relief Measures — Summary Table
| Measure | Details | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Container Tracking Fee | $3,850 (≈25.7 million SSP) abolished | Reduces cost for importers and exporters |
| Tax and Levy Review | Committee to examine fees | Ensures compliance with Financial Act and reduces illegal charges |
| Inter-Ministry Cooperation | Trade, Finance, Transport, SSRA | Improves coordination and speeds clearance processes |
| Government Oversight | Minister tours major trade areas | Enhances monitoring and addresses bottlenecks |
| Stakeholder Engagement | Meeting with Chamber of Commerce and forwarding agents | Strengthens dialogue and immediate problem-solving |
According to s atetement by the Trade Ministry today’s actions demonstrate a proactive approach to easing trade disruptions at Mombasa Port, ensuring that South Sudanese traders can continue to operate efficiently and that the economy remains stable amid logistical challenges.
Minister Scraps Container Tracking Fees
| Issue | Action Taken | Details | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Container Tracking Fees | Abolished | $3,850 per container (≈25.7 million SSP) | Reduces costs for traders and importers |
| Tax and Levy Review | Committee formation | Review fees under the Financial Act | Eliminate illegal charges, ensure fair taxation |
| Inter-Ministry Coordination | Trade, Finance, Transport, SSRA collaboration | Strengthen cooperation between key government bodies | Faster clearance and improved trade flow |
| Stakeholder Engagement | Meeting with Chamber of Commerce, clearing, and forwarding agents | Discuss transporters, shipping lines, and clearance issues | Immediate solutions and better communication |
| Government Oversight | Minister touring major trade areas | Inspect trade zones and monitor implementation | Ensure efficiency and problem resolution |
| Relief for Traders | Focus on impounded goods at Mombasa Port | Urgent measures to assist stuck cargo | Minimise delays and financial losses |
