Sudanese Traders: Challenges Facing Transport of Egyptian Goods to Khartoum and Omdurman Markets

Sudanhorizon – Nazik Shamam
Traders in the Sudanese food sector have revealed that they face obstacles that prevent Egyptian goods from reaching markets in Khartoum State.
Ahmed Dahi, a trader in the Omdurman market, that the transport of Egyptian goods faces significant hurdles. Shipments are being halted near the city of Dongola, where goods must be offloaded and transferred to other vehicles to complete their journey. He noted that there are strict government directives requiring transporters to adhere to specific, limited operational zones.
Dahi highlighted the positive impact of Egyptian goods, noting that they help lower prices due to their lower import costs. He confirmed that the lifting of the import ban contributed to a temporary price reduction—most notably for cooking oils and tomato paste. However, he pointed out that other factors—primarily the severe shortage of fuel—have driven prices back up by increasing transportation and logistics costs.
He further emphasized that markets are currently experiencing an unprecedented commercial slump, with buying and selling activity severely hampered by the worsening fuel crisis, the lack of public transportation, and broader logistical challenges in moving goods.
He added: “Despite these circumstances, some essential commodities have seen a notable decline,” explaining that the price of tomato paste, for instance, has dropped from 220,000 pounds to 150,000 pounds per carton.

Dahi noted that the gasoline shortage crisis has hindered the movement of goods and caused price volatility.

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