South Sudan: Doing business and staying in touch

Doing Business in South Sudan

Businessmen should wear a lightweight suit. Punctuality is less important than patience and politeness. Personal introductions are an advantage.

Office Hours

Sat-Thurs 0800-1430.

Economy

There are two cornerstones of the South Sudanese economy at independence: oil and aid. South Sudan has large oil reserves, which were much-contested during the long years of civil war with the north. South Sudan remains dependent its northern neighbour for transit, as oil pipelines head to Port Sudan on the Red Sea for refining and export. Years of fighting and internal displacement left large numbers of the population dependent on foreign aid, with numbers swelling following the return of many Southerners from Sudan in the run-up to independence.

GDP

No figures currently available

Main exports

Crude oil, timber, sorghum, peanuts, meat, hides, live animals.

Main imports

Oil and petroleum products, wheat and wheat flour, transport equipment, food, and manufactured goods.

Main trading partners

Sudan, Uganda, Kenya

Keeping in Touch in South Sudan

Telephone

There are no landlines. Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies. Coverage is available in main towns.

Internet

Internet access is available in main towns.

Media

The Sudan Tribune (www.sudantribune.com) is the main English language newspaper.

Post

International couriers operate in South Sudan.