Brussels: The European Union has approved a ban on the purchase, import and transfer of gold originating from Sudan in an effort to reduce funding for the country’s ongoing civil war. EU foreign ministers adopted the new measures, saying Sudan’s gold trade has become a major source of revenue for the armed groups involved in the conflict that began in April 2023.
The conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Millions of people have been displaced since fighting erupted, while humanitarian agencies continue to warn of worsening food insecurity and growing civilian suffering across the country.
Alongside the gold import ban, the European Union also prohibited the export of mercury and cyanide to Sudan. These chemicals are commonly used in gold mining and refining, and EU officials said restricting their supply would make it more difficult for armed groups to generate income through gold production. Exemptions will remain in place for humanitarian and public health purposes.
Sudan is one of Africa’s leading gold producers, with both the Sudanese army and the RSF controlling mining areas in different parts of the country. International experts estimate that a significant share of Sudan’s gold is smuggled through neighbouring countries before reaching international trading hubs, where it enters global markets.
The EU said the latest sanctions are intended to reduce the financial resources available to those prolonging the conflict and to strengthen pressure on individuals and organisations contributing to the violence. The restrictions expand existing sanctions already imposed on people and entities linked to the war.
Despite the new measures, analysts believe stronger international cooperation will be needed to effectively disrupt the illicit gold trade. Aid agencies continue to call for greater diplomatic efforts and humanitarian assistance as millions of Sudanese face displacement, hunger and deteriorating living conditions due to the prolonged conflict.
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