The European Union has prohibited the purchase, import, and transport of gold from Sudan, citing the trade as a major funding source for the country’s civil war. Sudan ranks among Africa’s largest gold producers, and both the army and the rival Rapid Support Forces rely heavily on gold revenue to fund their war efforts. Alongside the gold restrictions, the EU also prohibited exports of mercury and cyanide used in gold mining, while exempting supplies needed for humanitarian and public health purposes. Rights groups estimate that more than half of Sudan’s gold is smuggled abroad annually, often through neighboring countries, before reaching international trading hubs. Although the sanctions aim to weaken the financial networks sustaining the conflict, analysts warn that stronger enforcement by regional transit countries and global gold markets will also be essential.
BBC