EU bans imports of gold from Sudan

The European Union takes an important step towards targeting the economic foundations of the devastating civil war in Sudan.

20/07/2026

With the decision by the Council of the European Union to ban imports of gold originating from Sudan and restrict exports of materials used in gold mining, the EU is acknowledging what has become increasingly clear: control over natural resources, and gold in particular, is one of the key factors fuelling the conflict.

This is a necessary measure. No war can be fought without financial resources. Reducing the profits that fuel violence means weakening the war economy and increasing the cost of continuing the conflict.

But it would be a mistake to think that sanctions alone can be enough.

As efforts are made to disrupt the financial flows sustaining the war, Sudan continues to face one of the most severe humanitarian crises of our time: millions of people have been displaced, food insecurity has reached unprecedented levels, and access to humanitarian aid remains severely restricted.

This is why economic measures must be accompanied by renewed political and diplomatic engagement: protection of civilians, unimpeded humanitarian access, support for local actors, and a truly inclusive peace process.

 Targeting the war economy is essential. But building an economy of peace is a challenge that the international community can no longer afford to postpone.