(JUBA) – South Sudan currently has the lowest average national rice price among select East African countries, according to the latest regional market analysis, despite facing ongoing economic instability and inflationary pressures.
A review of rice prices across the region for July 2025 reveals that South Sudan, with an average price of USD 632 per metric tonne (equivalent to approximately 2.9 million South Sudanese Pounds), is the most affordable market for rice in East Africa. This places it below even Tanzania, whose rice prices have seen a moderate rise.
In Kenya, rice prices have increased sharply by 7.3 percent compared to the previous month, reaching USD 1,261 per metric tonne, or around 5.8 million South Sudanese Pounds. This marks the highest price in the region and has been linked to local inflation and increased transport costs. Kenyan households are feeling the strain as imported and locally produced rice both reflect higher costs at the retail level.
Tanzania, which typically maintains a strong domestic rice supply, recorded a 3 percent monthly rise in rice prices. The increase is partly attributed to the appreciation of the Tanzanian shilling and a surge in regional demand, particularly from neighbouring countries where local supply is limited. The average price in Tanzania stands at USD 1,055 per metric tonne, or about 4.8 million South Sudanese Pounds.
Meanwhile, Rwanda’s rice market remains relatively stable, with only minimal increases in price. The average price of rice in Rwanda is consistent with previous months, sitting at a moderate level.
Regional Rice Prices – July 2025
| Country | Price (USD/MT) | Price (SSP/MT) | Change from Last Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya | $1,261 | SSP 5,800,600 | +7.3% |
| Tanzania | $1,055 | SSP 4,853,000 | +3.0% |
| Rwanda | $1,055 | SSP 4,853,000 | Negligible |
| South Sudan | $632 | SSP 2,907,200 | Stable |
The report highlights that while South Sudan’s economy continues to face volatility, the rice market has remained relatively insulated from steep price surges, offering some relief to consumers who already contend with broader food insecurity and rising costs of other staples.
Experts suggest that the country’s ability to maintain comparatively low rice prices may stem from a combination of low import duties, humanitarian food imports and limited regional demand. However, they caution that the affordability may not be sustained without economic reforms and improved agricultural productivity.
Rice remains a key staple in South Sudanese households, particularly in urban areas where demand has grown in recent years. But while the price per metric tonne appears favourable, food access remains uneven across the country, especially in rural areas where transportation and infrastructure challenges affect supply chains.
Analysts warn that any future disruptions in trade routes, currency depreciation or fuel costs could quickly alter this trend. They also note that while South Sudan’s prices are low in comparison, its food market remains vulnerable to external shocks and domestic inefficiencies.
Despite this, the latest figures serve as a rare point of economic optimism for South Sudanese consumers facing daily price increases on other goods. The continued affordability of rice may provide some short term stability in household food consumption, particularly for low income families who spend a large share of their income on food.
