Jonglei traders expect drop in market prices
May 15, 2016 (BOR) – In a bid to reduce food prices in markets, traders in South Sudan’s Jonglei state have started bringing subsidised food items to Bor from the capital, Juba.
The state government recommended two companies to supply subsidised food items from the South Sudan capital.
Deng Kuol, who owns one of the hired companies, is said to have brought 50 tons of assorted food commodities to be sold at relatively cheaper prices as regulated by the state.
“Today, we have received 50 tons of food from Juba brought by one of the traders, Deng Kuol. The food items would be sold at relatively low prices”, Mawut Achiek, the state secretary general told Sudan Tribune on Saturday.
Ayuen Kur Ajok, a member in the state chamber of commerce said food prices were decided by individual traders in Bor, adding that the prices would be regulated since the state is now receiving subsidised commodities.
“The prices are high, sugar is at 1,500 South Sudanese pounds, baking flour is at 800 pounds per bag and 20-Liter jerry can is at 850 pounds in the market,” said Achiek.
Deng Kuol, who brought goods from Juba, said he would add all the costs he incurred before he announces the prices on each of the items he brought. The food items he bought reportedly comprised of wheat flour, rice, sugar and cooking oil.
According Kuol, cooking oil cost him up to SSP 650 on 20 liter-jerry can. Sugar at SSP1,115 per bag, but declined to disclose how much be paid for wheat flour and rice.
“I brought these goods from Juba, to support our government and the people of this state. I also need my government to support us with dollars. If I have dollars, I would do more than what I have done”, stressed Kuol.
Akech Dengdit, the state minister of information, while witnessing offloading of food commodities in the warehouse in Bor, said they were implementing the government policy of making food items affordable to the citizens in the state.
(ST)