Uganda Says Exports to South Sudan Hit US$700 Million
Uganda says its exports to South Sudan have reached about US$700 million, up from US$490 million in 2024, as a Kampala business forum sets new targets. The post Uganda Says Exports to South Sudan Hit US$700 Million appeared first on The Rio Times .
Uganda's exports to South Sudan have reached an estimated US$700 million, according to the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This significant increase from around US$490 million in 2024 highlights the vital economic relationship between the two nations. South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, relies heavily on Uganda for food, goods, and transport due to its limited manufacturing capabilities.
The Ministry's Ambassador, Charles Ssentongo, announced these figures during the launch of the second Uganda–South Sudan Business Forum at the Mestil Hotel in Kampala. He emphasized that the numbers are not final, as the Bank of Uganda, the central bank, is still verifying them. Key trade sectors now include agriculture, manufacturing, construction materials, and services, with education and healthcare being the main services South Sudanese purchase from Uganda.
The trade relationship has faced challenges, such as Uganda banning Ugandan maize imports and a recent dispute over scrap metal. However, improvements in cooperation between the Uganda Revenue Authority and South Sudan’s revenue body have helped reduce smuggling and speed up customs clearance. The forum aims to set new trade targets, with the Bank of Uganda yet to publish final trade data.
The US$700 million figure is an estimate, with the period covered not specified. US investors have stakes in South Sudan's banks and telecoms, and aid programmes rely on smooth trade for food and fuel shipments.
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