Border Challenges Dominate South Sudan–Uganda Trade Talks

(JUBA) – South Sudan and Uganda have renewed their commitment to improving cross border trade following a high level meeting held in Juba on Tuesday, 15 July 2025. The discussions focused on removing obstacles that limit the free movement of goods and traders between the two neighbouring countries.

The National Minister of Trade and Industry of South Sudan, Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk, hosted the meeting with Uganda’s Acting Ambassador to South Sudan, H.E. Justus Anyine Katisgazi. The dialogue aimed to strengthen bilateral trade cooperation and address logistical and policy challenges affecting traders on both sides of the border.

Ambassador Katisgazi urged both governments to act promptly to resolve persistent barriers that hinder trade. He noted that improving the ease of doing business at the border would enhance economic growth for both countries and create more opportunities for small and medium sized enterprises.

“The issues affecting our traders are well known, and what is required now is timely action. Our people depend on trade for livelihoods. We need to remove the unnecessary delays at border points,” he said.

Responding to the concerns, South Sudan’s Undersecretary of Trade, Mr. Yel Luol Kur, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the bottlenecks quickly and effectively.

“The Ministry is fully engaged in resolving these matters to allow for smoother cross border trade and deeper economic integration with Uganda,” said Mr. Kur.

South Sudan relies heavily on cross border trade with Uganda, particularly for essential goods such as food items, fuel, construction materials and manufactured products. Uganda, in turn, benefits from access to South Sudan’s growing market for exports.

Frequent border delays, inconsistent customs procedures, and lack of proper infrastructure have been recurring issues raised by business communities in both countries. These obstacles not only increase the cost of goods but also limit the growth potential of trade driven economies.

Efforts to resolve these challenges come amid broader regional efforts under the East African Community (EAC) to promote trade integration and mobility across member states. Although South Sudan is the newest member of the EAC, it has been urged to align its policies and systems with those of other countries to boost competitiveness.

Simplified view of current trade issues and goals: