EU bans gold imports from Sudan to cut off war financing
The European Union imposed a ban on the purchase, import and transfer of gold originating in Sudan, calling the trade a key source of financing for the civil war that began in April 2023. The measures also prohibit the sale and export of mercury and cyanide — chemicals used in gold processing — to Sudan.
Gold smuggling has become one of the main revenue streams for the conflict. By some estimates more than half, and perhaps up to 70 percent, of Sudan’s gold leaves the country illicitly, with the Rapid Support Forces accused of funneling billions of dollars’ worth to the United Arab Emirates and Kenya to pay for weapons and fighters. The RSF now controls most of northern and western Sudan.
The EU stopped short of the steps some in Brussels wanted: it did not add the RSF to its terrorist list, despite European Parliament members backing such a resolution, nor did it target the UAE-linked networks that move the gold. Analysts warn that a European import ban alone will do little unless major gold-trading hubs and transit countries tighten enforcement — meaning the trade can continue to flow through markets outside the bloc’s reach.