South Sudan invites foreign investors to improve economic growth
November 5, 2010 (JUBA) – The semi autonomous regional government of south Sudan on Friday reiterated calls for foreign investment to be increased to help sustainable economic growth in the region.
Stephen Dhieu Dau, minister of commerce and industry told the press in Juba that the economy will grow faster when Southern Sudan begins to export more goods and services; the levels of productivity is raised and more low skilled jobs created; performance of the public sector is improved to become an effective tool for reconstruction and development; and infrastructure capacity is enhanced especially in relation to telecommunications, rail, roads, electricity and water.
He explained that the government is already working on strategies to stimulate sustainable economic growth through diversification, stabilization of public finances, job creation as well as creation of an environment which is conducive for investment.
He said the ministry is mandated by the government to work on establishing strong trade and investment linkages both locally and internationally. The minister has led delegations to countries to Egypt and Greece to explore trade opportunities and attract investors to South Sudan.
South Sudan, which may become independent following a referendum in January, is exerting a lot of effort to establish strong trade and investment ties with other countries.
As well as through the state this is also being done in collaboration with the private sector through Public Private Partnerships (PPP), the minister said.
Dau said the mission of his ministry is to create conducive trade environment for private sector development and that the ministry is currently employing a three-tier policy encompassing trade, industry and agricultural marketing.
(ST)