Central Equatoria State Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede (left) meets with the National Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Margaret Labanya Mathya Ugila (right), to discuss market prices and tax reductions.

The Central Equatoria State government has held discussions with the national Ministry of Trade and Industry to formulate measures regarding commodity prices and market stability in Juba.

The meeting, held on Thursday, was attended by the Deputy Governor of Central Equatoria State, Paulino Lukudu Obede; the Mayor of Juba City Council; the Director of National Security Services in the State; and the national Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Margaret Labanya Mathya Ugila.

Deliberations centered on resolutions from the state security committee, which include proposals to reduce taxes on selected essential commodities to address consumer costs and market prices.

Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede outlined factors affecting current market conditions, citing commodity price increases, exchange rate fluctuations, and importation costs.

In response, Trade Minister Dr. Margaret Labanya Mathya Ugila stated the ministry’s commitment to collaborate with the state government and partner institutions to support market stability and consumer protection.

The state government and the national ministry concluded the session with an agreement to increase cooperation, establish market monitoring mechanisms, and coordinate enforcement measures to stabilize prices.