The European Union restricts Sudanese gold imports and mining chemicals to curb revenue fueling the year-long conflict between rival factions.
The European Union imposed sanctions on Sudanese gold imports and banned the export of mercury and cyanide to Sudan, aiming to disrupt funding for the country’s warring factions. The measures target both direct imports and efforts to route gold through third countries, addressing a key revenue stream amid Sudan’s collapsed formal economy.
Gold smuggling has become a major financial source for the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces since conflict erupted in April 2023. The EU’s actions follow a Dutch-French initiative but stop short of sanctioning UAE-linked entities, despite accusations of Gulf backing for the RSF, reflecting diplomatic balancing.
Sudan remains partitioned, with the SAF controlling Khartoum, while the EU’s restrictions focus on supply chain choke points rather than broader geopolitical alliances.