By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
Sudan’s gold sector which is one of the country’s most important sources of foreign currency, is struggling to survive amid ongoing conflict, damaged infrastructure, and the breakdown of key international trade relationships.
Global gold prices are at record highs, but traders in Sudan are largely unable to benefit. Although the country ranks among Africa’s leading gold producers and exporters, nearly three years of civil war have severely disrupted mining, processing, and exports, dealing a heavy blow to the industry.
“The current market is incredibly difficult. It’s a serious setback for the gold sector,” said Mohammed Al-Sawakni, head of the Gold Industry Association in Sudan’s Red Sea State.
Gold mining in Sudan is still predominantly traditional, relying on small-scale operations. Since fighting erupted, insecurity across mining regions has led to a sharp decline in output. At the same time, significant quantities of gold are believed to be leaving the country through smuggling routes, further depriving the state of much-needed revenue.
The conflict has also disrupted gold processing and trade. Shortages of raw materials have forced some refineries to scale down operations or shut entirely, while small workshops and retail traders struggle to remain in business. A noticeable drop in trading volumes has squeezed profit margins across the sector.
Production and exports have been further weakened by diplomatic tensions. In May, Sudan cut ties with the United Arab Emirates, accusing the Gulf state of backing the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who are locked in a power struggle with the Sudanese Armed Forces.
“The UAE is one of the Middle East’s most important gold markets and trading hubs,” said economist Ahmed Omar Khojali. “Replacing such a market will not be easy for Sudan.”
The loss of access to established trading centres has compounded existing challenges, leaving exporters with fewer options to sell their gold legally and competitively.
In response, Sudanese authorities say they are stepping up efforts to curb illegal mining and gold smuggling, while strengthening oversight of gold sales and export channels.
Plans are also underway to establish an international gold exchange in Khartoum, alongside the launch of a global online trading platform. Officials hope these initiatives will help regulate gold circulation and open new export pathways, even as the conflict continues to undermine economic stability.
For now, however, Sudan’s gold industry remains caught between soaring global prices and the harsh realities of war at home.
