The government will no longer tax imported essential commodities from outside the country, the minister of finance has said.

David Deng Athorbei says the move is aimed at reducing the high food prices in the markets.

Prices of food items such as beans, flour, maize, and oil among others have increased drastically after the devaluation of the pound against the US dollar.

Bus fare has also increased due to the rise in fuel prices, from 6 pounds per litter to 22.

Mr Athorbei says an economic security team will enforce the waiving the taxes.

“The government is now taking steps to try to waive customs on basic items especially food stuffs,” he told reporters on Thursday.

Mr Athorbei said market prices will also be monitored by the economic security organs to ensure food prices are affordable for the citizens.