![Man (hands seen) holds sum of South Sudanese Pound in the black market in Juba [Photo by ELRHA]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/South-Sudan-Cash-Transfer.jpg?resize=1024%2C597&ssl=1)
Meeting participants discussed the dramatic price increases, with flour jumping from SSP42,000 to SSP70,000 per 50kg bag and sugar rising from SSP70,000 to SSP83,000.
The black-market exchange rate for the US dollar also surged, reaching 148,000 SSP compared to the previous 110,000 SSP.
Chamber chairperson John Gau argued that allowing businesses access to the Central Bank’s official dollar exchange rate could alleviate the situation.
“Traders need access to Central Bank dollars to reduce prices,” Gau said. “Talking isn’t enough. We can’t control black market exchangers.”
He proposed sending 20 local business owners to the Central Bank with funds to purchase dollars officially, aiming to bring down consumer goods prices.
Traders also voiced concerns about illegal taxation on their goods entering the state.
Aweil Town Mayor Zechariah Dut Mou acknowledged the recent price hikes and stated a meeting with the governor would be held to address the Chamber’s concerns, including access to Central Bank dollars.
Residents fear the worsening economic situation will severely impact their daily lives, as many lack alternative income sources.
