South Sudan, with around 17 million people and about 80% living below the poverty line, faces severe infrastructure, security, and economic challenges, including hyperinflation and weak roads—factors that heavily impact trade and retail systems .

Market Context & Trade Landscape

• Heavily import-dependent: Imports account for around 66% of GDP, including vehicles, machinery, apparel, food, and electronics .
• Cross-border trade: Goods largely flow via Uganda, Kenya, and Sudan corridors; port infrastructure is limited .
• Growing e-commerce: A government‑supported online hub, dukaanye.com, launched in 2022 serves ~700 MSMEs, although penetration remains low due to limited internet and high broadband costs .
• Emerging retail chains: Notable chains include JIT Mart, Uchumi (in development), Phoenicia, VAMP, Amen, and AFRI General Trading .

Distribution & Retail Channels

1. Modern Supermarkets & Grocery Chains

• JIT Mart leads in Juba; others like Phoenicia and VAMP serve the capital .
• Uchumi, a Kenyan brand, is expanding into Juba .

2. Traditional Wholesale & Informal Markets

• Informal wholesalers, kiosks, and pushcarts are major distribution channels, especially outside urban centers.

3. Digital & E‑Commerce Platforms

• Dukaanye.com aims to digitize trade for MSMEs, though mobile and broadband coverage cover only ~4% and remain costly .

Recommended Market Entry Strategy

• Choose Juba as the hub: It’s the commercial heart and houses major retailers and banks .
• Partner with established supermarkets like JIT Mart or upcoming Uchumi stores.
• Use informal networks: Connect with wholesalers and kiosk distributors in urban and rural zones.
• Pilot e‑commerce: Work with MSME platforms like dukaanye.com and incorporate mobile money solutions.
• Plan logistics carefully: Expect delays due to poor roads and clearance challenges; navigate import licensing and customs with experienced brokers .

How SCA‑Partner Supports You

• Trade and channel-market analysis
• Distributor and retailer identification and vetting
• E‑commerce pilot and digital logistics setup
• Import licensing, customs clearance, and clearance strategies
• Trademark registration, regulatory compliance, and due diligence

Local Support That Matters

Navigating markets under hyperinflation, poor infrastructure, and informal systems requires on-the-ground expertise. SCA‑Partner, based in Nairobi with presence across 54 African countries, provides the local knowledge and reliable partnerships you need to enter South Sudan effectively.

That’s where we come in.
👉 Visit us at: www.scapartner.com

• AP News