Doing Business with Sudan

Exporting goods to Sudan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Sudan’s import regulations and product standards.

2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for tariff and regulation details.

3. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

   • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with non-tariff measures.

5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

   • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Sudan.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

   • Ensure your products meet Sudanese labeling and packaging standards.

7. Arrange for Insurance

   • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.

8. Submit Customs Declaration

   • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration.

9. Track and Confirm Delivery

   • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

• Sudan Customs Authority
  • Website: Sudan Customs
• Ministry of Trade and Supply
  • Website: Ministry of Trade and Supply

Importing goods into Sudan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Register as an Importer

   • Ensure your business is registered with the Ministry of Trade and Supply.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.

3. Check Import Requirements

   • Verify if your goods need specific licenses or permits under Sudanese regulations.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.

5. Select a Customs Broker

   • Engage a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.

6. Submit Import Declaration

   • File the import declaration with the Sudan Customs Authority.

7. Pay Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and taxes.

8. Arrange for Cargo Clearance

   • Coordinate with your freight forwarder or customs broker for the clearance and delivery of goods.

Key Contacts

• Sudan Customs Authority
  • Website: Sudan Customs
• Ministry of Trade and Supply
  • Website: Ministry of Trade and Supply

Incorporating a company in Sudan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of company (e.g., Private Limited Company).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Reserve your company name through the Commercial Registrar.

3. Prepare Articles of Association

   • Draft and notarize the Articles of Association.

4. Register the Company

   • Submit the registration application, including the Articles of Association, to the Commercial Registrar.

5. Obtain Tax Identification Number (TIN)

   • Register for a TIN with the Taxation Chamber.

6. Register with Social Insurance

   • Enroll employees in the social insurance fund.

7. Open a Corporate Bank Account

   • Set up a bank account in the company’s name.

Costs

• Registration Fees: Vary depending on the type and size of the company.
• Legal and Notary Fees: Additional costs for document preparation and notarization.

Key Contacts

• Commercial Registrar
  • Website: Ministry of Justice
• Taxation Chamber
  • Website: Sudan Taxation Chamber

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Sudan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

   • Assess market demand, location suitability, and resource availability.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Private Limited Company.

3. Register the Company

   • Register your business with the Commercial Registrar.

4. Secure Financing

   • Arrange funding through banks or investors.

5. Select a Location

   • Choose an industrial area with access to necessary infrastructure and resources.

6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for environmental, health, and safety permits from local authorities.

7. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant according to regulations.

8. Purchase and Install Equipment

   • Acquire machinery that meets safety and operational standards.

9. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.

10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Industry and Trade
  • Website: Ministry of Industry and Trade
• Sudan Investment Authority
  • Website: Sudan Investment Authority

Registering a trademark in Sudan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Check the availability of your trademark through the Industrial Property Office.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and list of goods/services.

3. File the Application

   • Submit your application to the Industrial Property Office, either online or in person.

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • Fees vary; confirm the current rate with the Industrial Property Office.

5. Application Examination

   • The office examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

6. Publication for Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for opposition, allowing others to contest it.

7. Receive Registration Certificate

   • If no oppositions are filed, you receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

• Application Fee: Costs vary; check with the Industrial Property Office for specifics.

Key Contacts

• Industrial Property Office, Sudan
  • Website: Ministry of Justice

Resolving commercial disputes in Sudan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Consult Legal Counsel

   • Engage a lawyer experienced in Sudanese commercial law for advice.

2. Attempt Negotiation

   • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation with the other party.

3. Mediation

   • Use mediation services to facilitate a resolution. This approach can be quicker and less costly.

4. Arbitration

   • Consider arbitration for a binding decision. This can be an effective alternative to court proceedings.

5. Litigation

   • If necessary, file a lawsuit in the appropriate court. Prepare for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Ensure the court’s decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

• Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and duration of the dispute.
• Court Fees: Required for litigation and depend on the case specifics.
• Mediation/Arbitration Fees: Vary based on the service provider.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Justice, Sudan
  • Website: Ministry of Justice

When considering doing business in Sudan, it’s important to understand various factors that can impact your operations. Here’s an overview:

Social Factors

• Language
  • Arabic is the official language. English is also used in business settings.
• Work Culture
  • Strong emphasis on relationships and personal connections. Hierarchical structures are common.

Cultural Factors

• Business Etiquette
  • Formal greetings are important. Building trust and rapport is essential.
• Religion
  • Islam plays a significant role in daily life and business practices.

Political Factors

• Government Structure
  • Sudan has a federal provisional government. Political stability can vary.
• Regulatory Environment
  • Regulations are subject to change; staying informed is crucial for compliance.

Foreign Exchange

• Currency
  • Sudanese Pound (SDG) is the official currency.
• Exchange Rate
  • The exchange rate can be volatile. Monitor it closely for financial planning.

Rule of Law

• Legal System
  • Based on Islamic and civil law. Enforcing contracts can be challenging.
• Intellectual Property
  • Protections exist but may have enforcement challenges.

Additional Resources

• Sudan Investment Authority
  • Sudan Investment Authority
• Ministry of Trade and Supply
  • Ministry of Trade and Supply
• Ministry of Justice
  • Ministry of Justice