This report from 2011 sets out the key immediate opportunities and challenges for the new Republic of South Sudan in managing its oil sector and using

its oil wealth to bridge the gap between its informal and formal economies, consistent with South Sudan’s objective to “strengthen the management of petroleum resources in a way that contributes fully to economic prosperity and economic development.” After summarizing key background information, the report analyzes critical challenges in the oil sector the new country will face and offers recommendations for making South Sudan’s oil work in the interests of its people, with a focus on the first years of independence.