Cash Shortage and Expectations of Continued Price Increases

Several citizens in states that witnessed the currency replacement campaign for the 1000 and 500-pound notes complained about the cash shortage and increased pressure on banking applications, which led to network failures and exacerbated the situation. Citizens reported the spread of cash trading, with a 20% commission charged for any transfer.

Economic experts revealed that extending the currency replacement period without providing the new currency contributed to the increased hardships. They predicted a fuel crisis and a rise in consumer goods prices. They also stated that shop owners would be forced to close their businesses if the currency replacement process, which began on December 10, 2024, and was extended until December 31, 2024, and again to January 6, 2025, was stopped. They called on the Central Bank of Sudan to find swift solutions to avoid a cash crisis and prevent an increase in usurious transactions.