Doing Business with South Sudan

A comprehensive guide to doing business, exporting, investing, and manufacturing in South Sudan.

Foreign Direct Investment with the International Trade Council / Company Incorporation / Company Formation

Ministry of Investment

Web: investment.eservices.gov.ss

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National Revenue Authority - Customs Division

National Chamber of Commerce

Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Tel: +211 925 096 368
Email: Info@ssnccia.org.ss
Website: ssnccia.org.ss

Ministry of Economy Information from the International Trade Council - a Peak-body - international chamber of commerce

Ministry of Finance and Planning


Tel: +211 912 307 227
Email: info@mofp.gov.ss
Website: mofp.gov.ss

  • Type of Government: Federal presidential republic
  • Population: Approximately 11 million
  • GDP: Around $4.5 billion USD
  • Corporate Tax Rate: 15%
  • Personal Income Tax Rate: 10% to 20% (progressive rates)
  • Major Exports: Oil, timber, agricultural products
  • Major Imports: Machinery, vehicles, foodstuffs, manufactured goods

 

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

  1. Research Market Requirements
    • Understand import regulations and product standards specific to South Sudan.
  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 South Sudan.
  6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

    • Ensure your products meet local 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

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

  1. Register as an Importer

    • Register with the South Sudan Ministry of Trade and Industry as an importer.
  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 from relevant authorities.
  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 through the South Sudan Customs Services.
  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

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

  1. Choose a Business Structure

    • Decide on the type of company, such as a Private Limited Company or Public Limited Company.
  2. Reserve a Company Name

    • Check and reserve your desired company name with the Business Registry.
  3. Register the Company

    • Submit your application with the Ministry of Justice, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
  4. Obtain a Company Registration Certificate

    • Receive a registration certificate upon approval from the Ministry of Justice.
  5. Register for Taxation

    • Register with the National Revenue Authority for a tax identification number.
  6. Open a Business Bank Account

    • Set up a business bank account in South Sudan.
  7. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

    • Apply for sector-specific licenses if required.

Costs

  • Name Reservation Fee: Variable
  • Registration Fee: Depends on the type and size of the company

Key Contacts

Setting up a manufacturing plant in South 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 Ministry of Justice.
  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

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

  1. Conduct a Trademark Search

    • Check the availability of your trademark to ensure it’s unique.
  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 Ministry of Justice, detailing the trademark and its use.
  4. Pay the Application Fee

    • Fees vary; consult the Ministry of Justice for current rates.
  5. Application Examination

    • The ministry examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.
  6. Publication for Opposition

    • If approved, the trademark is published for opposition.
  7. Receive Registration Certificate

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

Costs

  • Application Fee: Variable; check with the Ministry of Justice

Key Contacts

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

  1. Consult Legal Counsel

    • Engage a lawyer experienced in South 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 is often faster and less costly.
  4. Arbitration

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

    • If necessary, file a lawsuit in the South Sudanese courts. Prepare for a formal legal process.
  6. Enforcement of Judgments

    • Ensure the 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

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

  1. Consult Legal Counsel

    • Engage a lawyer experienced in South 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 is often faster and less costly.
  4. Arbitration

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

    • If necessary, file a lawsuit in the South Sudanese courts. Prepare for a formal legal process.
  6. Enforcement of Judgments

    • Ensure the 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

Our Members Include Leading Organizations in South Sudan

Ask our Experts on Doing Business in/with South Sudan

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