Egyptian business groups to set up fruit canning factories in Juba

Egyptian delegation presents a range of investment opportunities and outline several products and services they are prepared to introduce to the South Sudan market.

By Aguok Chok

The Egyptian business groups have expressed interest in establishing fruit canning factories to add value to South Sudan’s locally produced agricultural commodities and reduce post-harvest losses.

The delegation met with the Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang, in Juba on Tuesday.

They identified key sectors where Egyptian investors can partner with South Sudanese institutions and private companies to stimulate growth, strengthen production capacity, and improve access to essential goods and services.

Officials from both sides described the engagement as an important step toward deepening economic relations between the two countries.

During the discussions, the Egyptian delegation presented a range of investment opportunities and outlined several products and services they are prepared to introduce to the South Sudanese market.

Key areas highlighted included pharmaceutical manufacturing and supply, aimed at enhancing access to quality healthcare products, as well as technology investments designed to support digital transformation and the modernization of infrastructure across different sectors.

Members of the delegation hailed the minister for the warm reception and the opportunity to present their strategic business proposals, noting that South Sudan offers significant untapped opportunities for industrial and commercial expansion.

They emphasized their commitment to working closely with the government to ensure that proposed investments align with national development priorities and deliver long-term benefits for both countries.

In her remarks, Atong Kuol Manyang commended the Egyptian business groups for their interest in investing in South Sudan. She noted that Egypt has remained a reliable partner to the country over the years, supporting a variety of initiatives, including educational scholarships, professional training programs, and capacity-building efforts that have contributed to strengthening human resource development.

The Minister emphasized that the Ministry of Trade and Industry is actively pursuing an ambitious industrialization agenda aimed at positioning South Sudan as a competitive participant in the global economy.

She explained that the government is prioritizing investments that promote value addition to local resources, expand manufacturing capacity, and create employment opportunities for citizens.

Among the high-priority projects highlighted during the meeting were the establishment of fruit canning factories to add value to locally produced agricultural commodities and reduce post-harvest losses.

The Minister also pointed to the development of the gum arabic sector as a major opportunity, noting that South Sudan possesses significant natural resources that can be processed for export to international markets if proper industrial partnerships are established.

Officials from the Ministry stressed that collaboration with experienced international investors, such as Egyptian business groups, will play a crucial role in accelerating technology transfer, improving industrial skills, and strengthening domestic production systems. They added that sustained foreign investment is essential for diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on oil revenues.

The Ministry’s leadership also expressed appreciation to Ambassador Kang Gatkuoth for his dedicated service and for facilitating important international business connections that continue to open new opportunities for investment cooperation. Authorities believe that continued engagement with international partners will help expand trade flows, strengthen industrial capacity, and support long-term economic growth in South Sudan.

Utilities

The fruit canning factories will add value to locally produced agricultural commodities and reduce post-harvest losses.