The main Melut market might close down indefinitely due to scarcity of basic commodities, the county Chamber of Commerce has said.

Thon Anei Bior, chairman of the Chamber of Commerce in Melut, says goods are very expensive due to exorbitant taxes lavished on traders by the government.

He also says goods that used to come from Sudan at reduced prices have been cut off due to the fact that roads between Melut and Sudan are impassable during this rainy season.

“We are urging the government to ensure that goods are not just concentrated in Juba; they should be transported to the states because we have airports,” Mr Anei stated.

Mr Anei says once goods arrive in Melut, the chamber of commerce would distribute them to Renk, Paluch, Akoka, Maban and other areas in the state.