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EU Bans Gold Imports from Sudan and Restricts Mercury and Cyanide Exports
The European Union on 13 July 2026 adopted sanctions banning the purchase, import or transport of gold originating from Sudan. The same decision prohibits exports of mercury and cyanide to Sudan along with related services. The measures expand an existing sanctions regime targeting the civil war that began in April 2023.
Jul 15, 12:39 AM·1m read5 sources
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The Council of the European Union on 13 July 2026 adopted a decision banning the purchase, import or transport of gold originating from Sudan. The same measure prohibits the sale, supply, transfer or export of mercury and cyanide to Sudan and bars related technical assistance, brokering services and financial assistance.
The EU stated that gold has become a key source of revenue sustaining the conflict.
It said the measures aim to curb financing for the war and increase pressure on those involved. Sudan's civil war began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The fighting has displaced more than 14 million people.
Sudan ranks among Africa's largest gold producers, with UN experts and other analysts estimating that more than half and as much as 70 percent of its gold is smuggled out each year. The Rapid Support Forces control most goldfields in Darfur and Kordofan, while the Sudanese army oversees production in northern and eastern regions.
The gold is often trafficked through Egypt, Chad and Libya before reaching Dubai.
Exports of mercury and cyanide for humanitarian and public-health purposes remain exempt. The restrictions expand an EU sanctions framework first adopted on 9 October 2023 and updated regularly, with the latest sanctions list adopted in January 2026.
On 21 April 2026 the EU High Representative issued a statement calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and stating that external actors must stop fuelling the conflict.
