Trade Minister, U.S. Envoy Discuss Reforms and Investment

(JUBA) – South Sudan’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang, on Monday held talks with a United States delegation led by Ambassador Michael J. Adler, focusing on economic reforms, investment and bilateral relations, the ministry said.

The meeting in Juba reviewed ways to deepen economic ties between South Sudan and the United States, with attention on improving the business climate to attract foreign investors and support growth in the non oil economy.

Ambassador Adler said peace and stability remain essential for American companies to begin operations and invest in South Sudan. He stressed that a secure environment is a basic condition for long term business engagement.

The ambassador also raised humanitarian concerns, citing recent incidents in Jonglei State in which United States humanitarian vehicles were looted and destroyed. He called for stronger protection of aid assets and staff.

The delegation further urged continued dialogue on the use of public revenue, saying national resources should be managed effectively, including timely payment of civil servants, to support stability and confidence.

Minister Manyang thanked the delegation for the visit and for continued United States engagement with South Sudan. She described the damage to humanitarian aid as regrettable and said the government is working to improve security conditions across the country.

She outlined a roadmap of priority projects for the ministry, saying international support is needed to broaden the economy beyond oil, strengthen the private sector and improve access to financial services.

The minister said the government aims to support micro, small and medium enterprises and to build institutional capacity to expand financial inclusion and job creation.

Both sides agreed to keep channels open and to continue dialogue aimed at building a more resilient and transparent economic environment in South Sudan, the ministry said.