Sudan begins electronic foreign trade transactions to end paperwork

December 27, 2025 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s Ministry of Digital Transformation and Telecommunications on Saturday launched electronic foreign trade transactions through its “Baladna” platform, a move aimed at eliminating paper-based export procedures.

The Baladna platform, developed by the ministry, serves as a digital gateway between the government and external entities, streamlining services for citizens and corporations.

The ministry said in a statement that the first export contract was processed entirely online, linking the Central Bank of Sudan and the Ministry of Trade and Industry systems. This unified data exchange framework effectively ends the need for physical paperwork from the start of a transaction to its completion.

Sudanese exports have historically been managed through a cumbersome manual system involving bank and customs documents, trade licenses, chamber of commerce registrations, and tax certificates.

The new integrated system connects several bodies, including customs, the standards and metrology organization, seaports, border crossings, and the tax and zakat chambers. It also incorporates veterinary and health clearances into a “single window” for trade.

Mohamed al-Khair, a digital transformation expert, told Sudan Tribune the move was a “qualitative leap” that would increase transparency and reduce costs for exporters.

“This integration enables real-time tracking of transactions and significantly reduces processing time,” al-Khair said, adding that the move would help curb corruption and boost international confidence in Sudan’s business environment.

According to Central Bank of Sudan data, the country’s exports totalled $1.79 billion between January and September 2025, while imports reached $4.28 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $2.49 billion.