The Republic of South Sudan and the People’s Republic of China held high-level discussions in Juba today aimed at deepening trade cooperation and fostering investment opportunities between the two nations.
The meeting, led by Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk, South Sudan’s National Minister of Trade and Industry, welcomed the Ambassador of China to South Sudan along with a delegation of senior Chinese diplomats.
Also in attendance was South Sudan’s Undersecretary of Trade, Yel Luol Koor, alongside officials from the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
During the session, both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral trade ties, promoting mutual economic benefits, and creating a stable investment environment conducive to private-sector growth.
The discussions also highlighted opportunities for South Sudanese exports and investment in strategic sectors.
The Chinese Ambassador expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed China’s commitment to a constructive economic partnership with South Sudan.
As part of the engagement, the Ambassador extended a formal invitation to Minister Atong Kuol to attend the upcoming Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), scheduled for March 26, 2026, in Cameroon.
In response, Minister Atong Kuol thanked the delegation for the invitation and confirmed her participation at the WTO conference.
She also outlined the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to resolve South Sudan’s WTO membership arrears, noting that the issue has been escalated to the Economic Cluster for direct resolution.
Reflecting on her previous visit to China last year, the Minister highlighted productive engagements with the Chinese business community and reaffirmed South Sudan’s openness to investment.
She identified high-potential sectors including Gum Arabic, Honey Production, and Fish Processing as key areas where Chinese investors could play a role in driving economic growth.
Both parties concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to creating a conducive trade and investment environment, with a focus on sustainable economic development, market expansion, and long-term cooperation.
This engagement signals a renewed focus on bilateral trade as South Sudan works to diversify its economy, attract foreign investment, and strengthen partnerships with global economic players.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry emphasized that further discussions and technical exchanges will continue to ensure actionable outcomes for both nations in terms of trade agreements, investment facilitation, and sector-specific collaborations.
This strategic engagement aligns with South Sudan’s broader vision of economic recovery and growth, leveraging international partnerships to develop key industries and create opportunities for domestic employment and sustainable business development.
