In brief
The European Union has banned the purchase, import, and transfer of gold from Sudan, citing its role in financing the ongoing civil war. The conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has displaced more than 14 million people, while gold mining remains a key revenue source. Analysts estimate that up to 70 % of Sudan’s gold is smuggled abroad through Egypt, Chad, Libya, and Dubai. The measure extends earlier sanctions and aims to pressure those driving the conflict, though experts warn that enforcement will need global cooperation to curb illicit trade.
In a move aimed at curbing the financial lifeline of one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, the European Union announced today that it will ban the purchase, import and transfer of gold originating from Sudan. The measure comes amid escalating conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which erupted in April 2023.
Sudan’s vast gold reserves have become a critical revenue source for both sides of the fighting. Rights groups indicate that more than half—and in some estimates close to 70 %—of the country’s gold is smuggled out each year. The gold is often moved via neighbouring countries such as Egypt, Chad and Libya before reaching Dubai, a major global hub for refining and trade.
EU foreign ministers approved the ban as part of a broader sanctions regime that also targets the export of mercury and cyanide, chemicals essential for gold mining. The aim is to strip the armed groups of the financial support that fuels the violence. “Gold has become a key source of revenue sustaining the conflict in Sudan,” the EU Council said. “The measures are designed to curb sources of financing for the conflict and increase pressure on those fuelling the war.”
The new restrictions prohibit EU individuals and companies from purchasing, importing or transporting any gold from Sudan. These actions complement existing sanctions that target individuals and entities accused of fuelling the conflict. However, experts caution that without tighter enforcement at major trading hubs and transit routes, the sanctions alone may not halt the illicit trade. International pressure continues to intensify as aid agencies warn that more than 28 million people in Sudan face acute hunger.
For more in‑depth coverage on Sudan, visit BBCAfrica.com.
