(JUBA) – South Sudan’s Ministry of Trade and Industry says it is seeking to strengthen its approach to sustainable industrial development and technology driven growth following participation in a high level ministerial session held in Türkiye under the Zero Waste Forum.
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Labanya Margaret Mathya, has returned to Juba after attending discussions that brought together ministers, policymakers, industry specialists and international partners to examine strategies for sustainable production systems, technological innovation and environmentally responsible economic growth.
The forum focused on industrial development models that promote efficient use of resources, reduce waste generation and encourage the adoption of circular economy practices across different sectors.
The Zero Waste Forum serves as an international platform aimed at supporting sustainable resource management, improved environmental practices and innovation driven economic expansion while reducing environmental impact.
Upon arrival at Juba International Airport, Dr Labanya was received by senior ministry officials, including the technical adviser and the acting undersecretary, reflecting the importance attached to the visit within the ministry’s ongoing policy work.
According to the ministry, the discussions held in Türkiye covered areas including industrial policy reform, waste management systems, and the integration of technology into manufacturing and production processes.
Officials say the engagement is part of broader efforts to align South Sudan’s industrial development agenda with global trends that emphasise sustainability, efficiency and innovation in economic planning.
South Sudan continues to focus on diversifying its economy beyond oil dependence, with growing attention on agriculture, light manufacturing and small scale industrial development as potential drivers of future growth.
The ministry noted that exposure to international best practice in industrial planning could support ongoing efforts to improve domestic production systems and attract investment into emerging sectors.
Participants at the forum also discussed how developing economies can strengthen industrial capacity while managing environmental challenges linked to rapid urbanisation and population growth.
The circular economy approach highlighted at the event encourages reuse, recycling and efficient material use in order to reduce waste and improve long term economic resilience.
For South Sudan, where infrastructure and industrial capacity remain at early stages of development, such models are viewed by policymakers as potential frameworks for guiding future industrial policy.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry said the insights gained from the forum will contribute to ongoing policy discussions aimed at improving competitiveness, supporting job creation and strengthening private sector participation in the economy.
Officials also emphasised the importance of international cooperation in supporting technology transfer, skills development and institutional capacity building in order to support sustainable industrialisation.
The ministry added that engagement with global partners remains a key part of efforts to modernise trade systems and improve economic governance structures.
South Sudan has in recent years increased its participation in regional and international economic forums as part of efforts to expand trade relations and attract foreign investment.
The government has identified industrial development and trade expansion as central pillars for long term economic stability and diversification.
The ministry said further consultations and follow up activities are expected following the Türkiye forum as part of efforts to translate international discussions into domestic policy actions.
Officials also claimed the focus will remain on building practical frameworks that support sustainable industrial growth while addressing local economic challenges and development priorities.