South Africa has opened a consulate-general in Juba, southern Sudan, the department of foreign affairs announced on Wednesday.

The new mission will "contribute to facilitating the movement of business people between the two countries", it said in a statement.

South African exports to Sudan had increased over the past year, from R463-million in 2007, to R718-million in 2008. They included base metals, machinery, wood pulp, plastics and chemicals.

Foreign affairs noted the two countries enjoyed "good bilateral relations".