Specific Remarks:

South Sudan is a member of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR). It was admitted as a member in 2011, following its independence from Sudan. The ICGLR is a regional intergovernmental organization focused on peace, security, and development in the Great Lakes region of Africa, and South Sudan actively participates in its activities and initiatives.

While South Sudan is a member, it has also faced challenges related to conflict and instability, which the ICGLR has addressed in its statements and initiatives.

South Sudan Minerals Certification Situation

South Sudan is actively working to formalize and regulate its mineral certification processes to ensure responsible mining practices, enhance transparency, and comply with international standards. Here's an overview of the current situation:

• 1. Regulatory Framework

• Mining Act 2012 & Mineral Title Regulation 2015: These laws govern the mining sector, streamlining licensing and enhancing security of tenure. They emphasize sustainable development, environmental protection, and community involvement.

• Ministry of Mining: Established in 2015, the Ministry oversees mineral resource management, offering various licenses such as artisanal, small-scale, and large-scale mining. It encourages both local and international investments in the sector.

• 2. Certification and Export Procedures:

• ⁠Certificate of Origin: Issued by the South Sudan National Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (SSNCCIA), this document certifies that exported goods are wholly or partially produced in South Sudan. It's essential for international trade and requires detailed exporter and product information.

• Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN): Managed by the South Sudan Revenue Authority, the ECTN is mandatory for all cargo shipments entering or exiting the country. It ensures detailed cargo declarations for efficient and transparent customs processing.

• Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC): Implemented in partnership with SGS, this program mandates that all imported products above USD 2,000 undergo quality and safety inspections before shipment to South Sudan. It aims to protect consumers and the environment while facilitating trade.

• 3. Formalizing Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM):

• Recognizing the economic potential of ASM, South Sudan, with support from UNESCO, is developing educational curricula and policy guidelines to formalize this sector. The initiative focuses on:

>> Capacity Building: Providing training programs that promote best practices in mining and mineral processing.

>> Environmental Protection: Reducing negative impacts like land degradation and the use of toxic chemicals.

>> Economic Development: Ensuring that mining operations contribute to local community prosperity and national growth.

• 4. International Collaboration:

• South Sudan is a member of the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF), which supports countries in leveraging mining for sustainable development. Through IGF, South Sudan gains access to international best practices and technical assistance to build a robust and sustainable mining sector.