South Sudan to Join World Trade Organization

By Kidega Livingstone
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang, has confirmed that South Sudan is set
to join the World Trade Organization (WTO).
In a statement from the Press Unit seen by Juba Echo, Minister Atong made the announcement
during the Sixteenth Session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
(UNCTAD 16), which brought together trade ministers from across the globe in Geneva on
Tuesday.
She said that securing WTO accession is a cornerstone of South Sudan’s economic development
strategy. The minister emphasized the country’s readiness to comply with international trade standards,
noting that membership would play a vital role in accelerating economic diversification,
attracting foreign direct investment, and integrating South Sudan more deeply into the global
economy.
“Our presence at the Sixteenth Session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and
Development (UNCTAD 16) is a testament to our dedication to multilateralism,” Minister
Manyang stated.
“We are working diligently to finalize the necessary reforms that will allow us to join the World
Trade Organization family. This step is not just about trade—it is about ensuring long-term
stability and prosperity for the people of South Sudan through clear, equitable, and predictable
global trading partnerships,” she added.
According to the Press Unit, Minister Manyang, during the high-level deliberations, reiterated
South Sudan’s strong commitment and ongoing efforts toward full WTO membership.
She also appealed to the international community and fellow trade ministers for continued
support in facilitating South Sudan’s accession process, recognizing that global cooperation is
crucial in empowering emerging and developing economies.