Juba County restricts foreign nationals from small-scale retail trade

Juba County Caretaker Commissioner Kalisto Lado has issued a directive restricting foreign nationals from engaging in small-scale retail trade. Speaking at Kubri Haboba Market, Lado stated that activities such as operating chapati stalls, selling charcoal, transporting goods via commercial motorcycles, and retailing produce like onions and tomatoes should be reserved for South Sudanese citizens to provide local economic opportunities.

Lado clarified that the directive does not order foreigners to leave the country, noting that a county commissioner lacks the authority to expel foreign nationals. He emphasized that foreigners remain welcome to participate in the economy through wholesale trade, manufacturing, and larger investments that create jobs for locals. The directive specifically addressed nationals from Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, and Uganda.

Critics argue the measure may violate the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community, which South Sudan ratified in 2016. The treaty mandates the free movement of persons and labor, as well as non-discrimination against citizens of partner states. Opponents suggest the policy could be self-defeating and legally problematic under regional protocols.