Sudan: Briefing by the British Ambassador

Nicholas Kay CMG took up his position as Her Majesty's Ambassador to Sudan in May 2010. Prior to this he was Her Majesty’s Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo from 2007-2009.

Sudan offers profitable business opportunities for companies willing to undertake the preparation and sustained sales effort needed for success. GDP is expected to grow by 5.5% in 2010, in part due to oil production and inflows of foreign direct investment from Arab countries.

The 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) has led to an increase in investment from the Gulf, Malaysia and Turkey, particularly in the oil & gas, construction and agriculture sectors. Sudan has estimated oil reserves of 5 billion barrels, and currently produces ½m barrels per day, expected to reach 1m per day by 2012; its mineral reserves have attracted companies from France, China and Saudi Arabia, although much of the country remains unexplored; and to provide the infrastructure it needs the Government of Sudan is building roads, railways and dams. It has also lowered business taxes, including to zero on agricultural developments.

The terms of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement means Southern Sudan will hold a referendum in January 2011 to decide whether to remain part of Sudan, or become a separate country.

Apart from an EU arms embargo and restrictions on certain individuals, there are no UK sanctions preventing trade with Sudan. However, US sanctions do mean finding banks willing to process payments from Sudan can be difficult.

There is no charge for members to attend.
Non-member charge £95.00 + VAT.
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