South Sudan Revenue Authority Exceeds Collection Target for March

The South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) has announced that it exceeded its revenue collection target for March by over 6 billion South Sudanese pounds (SSP). The SSRA, under the leadership of Commissioner General Simon Akuei Deng, set a target of 30 billion SSP for the month, but the total collected amounted to 36 billion SSP (approximately £16.5 million). This is a significant increase compared to previous months, with January’s revenue collection standing at 17 billion SSP (around £7.5 million) and February’s at 34 billion SSP (roughly £15 million).

Akuei Deng attributed the growth to several key factors, including improved tax compliance, stricter border monitoring, and enhanced enforcement of customs regulations. He emphasised that the success of these measures shows the potential of South Sudan’s customs sector to contribute to the strengthening of government finances.

Speaking during a visit to Nimule on Thursday, the Commissioner General expressed his appreciation for the work done by customs officers in meeting and surpassing their revenue targets. “We gave ourselves a target of 30 billion SSP for the month of March 2025 in Nimule, and in January, they managed to raise 17 billion SSP. In February, they raised over 34 billion SSP, and in March, we set a target of 30 billion SSP, which was surpassed by collecting 36 billion SSP. So, we have come to say thank you very much to our Customs officers,” Akuei Deng said.

He added that this increase in revenue collection highlights South Sudan’s capability to finance its government budget and pay government salaries. “We can do more, and we can increase our revenues because, normally, it has the potential of paying government salaries. What we have resolved is that we are capable of raising revenues and financing our government budget,” he stated.

The introduction of the South Sudan Financial Act 2024/2025, which came into effect in early 2025, has brought significant changes to the taxation system. The Act, which was assented into law in November 2024, made adjustments to Business Profit Tax (BPT), Withholding Tax (WHT), Excise Tax, and Customs Duties, along with new rates applicable to various sectors. These changes have been instrumental in improving revenue collection across the country, with the customs sector playing a vital role in these efforts.