18 April 2023 (Juba) –National consultation session was held in Juba to expedite the development of a Trade Facilitation Portal (TFP) in the Republic of South Sudan.

The International Trade Centre (ITC), with support of the Government of South Sudan, convened the session under the European Union (EU)- East African Community (EAC) Market Access Upgrade Programme (MARKUP II).

Funded by the EU and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat, MARKUP II aims to strengthen EAC’s small businesses through enhanced regional and international trade in close partnership with the East African Business Council, EAC Partner States, business support organizations, and local institutions.

Once launched, the Portal will provide a user-friendly online platform, including a step-by-step guide to ensure compliance with import, export, and transit formalities. Bridging the information gap, it will enable small businesses to access documents and forms required for international trade and comply with applicable regulations.

The national consultation brought together more than 30 representatives from key stakeholders including the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the South Sudan Revenue Authority, border regulatory agencies and business support organizations.

The consultation led to a clear roadmap to ensure an efficient establishment of the Trade Facilitation Portal and build consensus among participating border regulatory agencies and private sector entities on an inclusive governance structure. It was also instrumental in identifying key priorities and selected products, which will serve as strong foundations for the development and implementation of the Trade Facilitation Portal in the country.

Trade Facilitation Portals in the EAC have been key success factors in fostering a conducive business environment by supporting simplification and digitalization efforts and reaching impressive results in other partner states.