Sudan’s authorities have raised the exchange rate used to calculate customs duties by 29.57%, a Finance Ministry source told local Sudanese media on Monday, warning that the increase would push up consumer prices.
The customs dollar rate rose to 5,631.76 Sudanese pounds from 4,346.65 pounds, an increase of 1,285.11 pounds, according to the unnamed official.
The rate determines the local-currency value of imported goods for customs assessments. An increase can raise importers’ tax bills even when tariff percentages remain unchanged.
The source said the adjustment was intended to cover budget and revenue shortfalls by increasing customs receipts, but criticised repeated increases during the same financial year.
Previously, the rate would remain fixed for more than a year under the national budget, the official said.
The source warned that the latest increase would directly affect commodity prices and urged authorities to seek alternatives, including developing exports, rather than adding to pressure on household finances.
The report did not include an official announcement specifying when the new rate would take effect.
The adjustment follows earlier increases this year. In April, Sudan Tribune reported a 14% rise in the customs dollar rate, followed by a further 5.6% increase in August.
Local Sudanese media have reported persistent price increases and disruption in consumer markets, with some retailers suspending sales amid exchange-rate uncertainty and residents complaining of declining purchasing power.
