The South Sudanese government has issued a defiant directive enforcing mandatory cargo sealing for all goods entering or leaving the country, effectively overturning a court challenge by traders.
The new order, issued on August 13 by the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA), requires all stakeholders in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania to affix a special seal provided by South Sudan to all cargo destined for or originating from their countries.
This measure comes in addition to the existing Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) system.
The move has sparked fresh tensions with neighboring countries, as it overrides a legal challenge filed by Kenyan clearing and forwarding agents just five months ago.
The agents had sought to halt the introduction of a second cargo tracking seal, arguing that it would increase costs and bureaucratic hurdles for businesses.
SSRA Commissioner for Corporate Services, Dr. Daniel Kon Ater, insists that the new policy is crucial for improving revenue collection and combating smuggling.
However, critics contend that the measure will further hinder trade and economic growth in the region.
The East African Community, of which South Sudan is a member, is expected to weigh in on the matter as the directive could have significant implications for regional trade.