S. Sudan streamlines revenue collections at entry points

July 26, 2013 (JUBA) – South Sudan has announced plans to streamline revenue collection at all its entry points with neighbouring nations, like Uganda and Kenya next month.

The new initiative, officials told Sudan Tribune, follows complains from traders regarding the delays they encounter while clearing their commodities at border points.

Tax officials say the new system, once put in to place, would resolve inefficiencies and blockages seen as major barriers to trade between the three countries.

“We want to ensure smooth movements and speedy flow of goods and commercial services between our countries by streamlining revenues collection,” senior ministry of finance official told Sudan Tribune Thursday.

All those which contribute to delays in movement would be addressed by this new initiative, he added.

The official, who preferred anonymity, further revealed that goods already cleared at main entry points, would not be stopped at any other checkpoint along highways.

The new system, he stressed, would allow a “unified flow of goods”, adding that it would also prevent the practice of commodities getting into the system without custom payments.

Landlocked South Sudan recently announced an increase in non-oil revenues seen as the country’s economic lifeline after last year’s oil shutdown. Oil revenues previously supported nearly 98% of South Sudan’s annual budget.

(ST)