In brief
The European Union has enacted a comprehensive ban on the sale, import and transfer of gold originating from Sudan, seeking to cut the financial lifeline of the civil war that began in April 2023. Sudan’s vast gold reserves are exploited by both the national army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, with up to 70% smuggled each year through neighbouring countries to Dubai’s refining hubs. The sanctions also restrict the export of mercury and cyanide used in gold mining, while allowing humanitarian supplies. Experts warn that enforcement must extend beyond EU borders into major trading centers and transit routes to effectively curb illegal gold flows. The new measures come amid mounting international pressure and rising humanitarian distress among the Sudanese population.
The European Union has tightened its sanctions against Sudan, banning the purchase, import and transfer of gold originating from the country. The measure is aimed at cutting the financial streams sustaining the ongoing civil war that began in April 2023.
Sudan’s gold output is among the largest in Africa, but a growing proportion of its reserves—up to 70%—is smuggled abroad each year. The territory’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the national army have turned gold mining into a lucrative source of revenue, funding their operations and deepening the humanitarian crisis that has displaced more than 14 million people.
The EU’s sanction package also bars the export of mercury and cyanide, chemicals used in gold extraction, while leaving those for humanitarian and public‑health use unaffected. Under the restrictions, EU firms and individuals cannot buy, import or transport Sudanese gold.
Experts warn that the ban alone will not stop the trade; enforcement would need to expand into major global trading hubs such as Dubai, and transit routes in Egypt, Chad and Libya.
The new measures come as international pressure mounts on those funding the conflict and as aid agencies report that roughly 28 million on the island are facing acute hunger.
