Freight Forwarders applaud SSNBS for clamping down on substandard imports

By Matik Kueth 

The South Sudan Freight Forwarders Association (SSFFA) has praised the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) for ramping up efforts to curb the entry of substandard goods into the country, calling it a significant move to safeguard both consumer health and the national trade environment.

The commendation follows a recent SSNBS directive to return six trucks carrying 3,840 bags of white sorghum to Tanzania. The shipment, intended for humanitarian use, was flagged at the Nimule border crossing on April 15 after routine inspection and laboratory testing determined it was unfit for human consumption. Tests revealed the sorghum was physically damaged, contaminated with foreign matter, and in poor condition overall, failing to meet the country’s established safety and quality benchmarks.

In a statement issued to King Media on Friday, SSFFA President Deng Daniel expressed strong support for the Bureau’s stringent quality control measures. He specifically highlighted the importance of rejecting imported goods that do not pass laboratory testing, emphasizing the role such enforcement plays in maintaining the integrity of South Sudan’s import system.

“For over a year now, SSNBS has rejected imports of substandard goods into the country after laboratory tests showed unacceptable results,” Daniel said.

He added, “This new development has sent a signal to importers and producing countries that South Sudan is no longer a dumping ground for low-quality products as it used to be.”

The Bureau’s vigilance, especially at critical entry points like the Nimule station, is credited with helping to change the perception of South Sudan as a passive recipient of questionable products.

Daniel lauded the officer in charge of the Nimule station, citing his “steadfast leadership in upholding the mandates of the Bureau” and his exemplary cooperation with stakeholders.

“His cooperation with other stakeholders is commendable and greatly appreciated,” he emphasized.

He underlined the broader impact of the efforts on trade practices, highlighting that the crackdown is promoting fairer competition and enhancing transparency at borders.

“Your commitment to ensuring the quality and safety of imported goods not only protects consumers but also promotes fair competition, which greatly benefits our trade ecosystem,” he stressed.

However, Daneil urged the Bureau to remain vigilant internally, noting concerns regarding the conduct of laboratory technicians.

“We urge you to closely monitor laboratory technicians, as there have been concerns regarding their conduct,” he stated, noting that integrity must be maintained across all levels of enforcement.

The SSFFA President also appealed to all clearing agents to actively support the Bureau’s procedures.

“I call upon all clearing agents to cooperate with the officials of the SSNBS in their procedural approaches and to report any suspicious imports to the nearest office,” he said.

As South Sudan develops its regulatory frameworks and trade standards, engagement between industry stakeholders and government regulators is viewed as critical to creating a resilient and equitable trading environment .