South Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Industry has officially launched its long-awaited website after months of internal review and content approval by the ministry’s top management.
Speaking at the launch held at the ministry’s headquarters in Juba, Trade and Industry Minister Atong Kuol Manyang said the new website is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance trade through improved information sharing between the ministry and business communities interested in investing in South Sudan.
“The website is very important. It’s not only about information for the ministry, but also for the entire country. Many of the things featured — including goods and products — represent South Sudan. We are, in essence, selling our country to the outside world for investors. The world now is a global village,” she said.
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, is often described as a nation rich in natural resources but with limited engagement in international trade. The minister said the platform will provide an opportunity to showcase the country’s business and industrial potential to the global market.
The ministry’s Undersecretary, Yel Luol Koor, also hailed the launch, describing it as a major milestone in South Sudan’s digital transformation.
“Today is a very important day for the Ministry of Trade and Industry because we are finally joining the world. We will now be seen globally, and we have been patient to reach this day,” he said. “In fact, having a website is new to us in South Sudan, but it is very important. However, we must ensure it is maintained and remains active,” he added.
Call for Interactivity
Some members of the business community have welcomed the launch, saying the website will make it easier to access vital trade policies and government documents online.
Jude Halera, Marketing and Business Development Manager at Blessings Millers Limited, praised the initiative and urged the ministry to make the platform interactive.
“It’s a very good development, and we hope it will improve communication between the traders and the ministry. I also hope there will be avenues for feedback — not just one-way communication,” Halera said.
Kou Ajak Kou, CEO of Elaag Agricultural Company Limited and Secretary-General of the South Sudan Gum Arabic Federation Union, said the website marks a positive step for South Sudan’s business visibility.
“This website will make us known globally. It will help market our business potential. South Sudan is full of different resources — minerals, water, timber, and gum Arabic — but we are not yet benefiting from them in trade,” he said.
