EU expands Sudan sanctions framework, targeting gold trade

BRUSSELS, July 13, 2026 — The European Union moved to cut off parts of Sudan’s war economy, targeting gold trade and chemicals used in mining as the conflict continues to draw revenue from commodity flows.

The Council of the EU said it strengthened its Sudan restrictive-measures regime by banning the purchase, import or transfer of gold originating in Sudan. The decision also bars the sale, supply, transfer or export of mercury and cyanide to Sudan, chemicals widely used for gold mining or gold exploitation.

The restrictions extend beyond goods to related services, including technical assistance, brokering services and financial assistance. In practical terms, the action creates new screening and transaction risks for firms involved in precious-metals trading, chemical supply, logistics, brokerage or financing connected to Sudan.

The measures include targeted exceptions. The mercury and cyanide restrictions do not apply to goods intended for humanitarian purposes, public health emergencies or disaster response.

The Council linked the move to its broader response to Sudan’s conflict, which began April 15, 2023, and has caused an unprecedented humanitarian crisis and widespread violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. The EU adopted its Sudan sanctions framework on Oct. 9, 2023, for activities undermining the country’s stability and political transition, and said it has regularly updated the framework, including a January 2026 listing.

The latest decision follows EU statements calling for an immediate and lasting ceasefire and warning that restrictive measures could be used against Sudan’s war economy. Today’s action focuses on gold and mining inputs the Council described as contributing to resources available to those perpetuating violence.