Juba to Host National Agro-Food Trade Fair in January 2026

(JUBA) – The Ministry of Trade and Industry has announced its full support for a national agro food trade fair scheduled to take place in January 2026. The exhibition will provide South Sudanese farmers and producers with an opportunity to showcase their agricultural products and strengthen links to local and regional markets.

The announcement followed a meeting in Juba between the National Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk and leaders of the Orient Group, the organisers of the event.

Also present at the meeting were Hon. Ustaz Yel Luol, Undersecretary at the Ministry, together with the Director Generals of External Trade, Domestic Trade and Trade Fairs and Exhibitions.

According to the Orient Group, the exhibition is intended to be a nationwide effort, with participants expected from all ten states and the three administrative areas. The Ministry of Trade and Industry will serve as the main government partner in the project, providing technical and logistical backing.

Manyang described the event as an important step in promoting agricultural trade, which remains one of the cornerstones of South Sudan’s economy. She said the government views agriculture and trade as central to economic development and the improvement of livelihoods across the country.

The Minister also emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring that the fair succeeds.

“This trade fair is not only about exhibitions, but about creating opportunities for farmers and producers to connect with markets, increase exports, and contribute to national growth,” she said.

The trade fair will bring together farmers, cooperatives, agro-businesses, traders, investors and policymakers. Organisers hope that it will serve as a platform for South Sudanese agricultural products to gain visibility both locally and internationally.

The Trade Ministry also noted that the initiative would encourage farmers and producers to improve product quality and increase production, given the potential to access wider markets. This is seen as vital for diversifying the economy away from oil dependence.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry has urged private companies, state governments and development partners to support the initiative, noting that agriculture accounts for the livelihood of most households in South Sudan.

The event could mark one of the largest trade related gatherings in the country aimed at positioning South Sudan more prominently within regional agricultural trade networks.