Sudan gold exporters urge govt intervention to secure fuel imports
April 12, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – The Sudan Gold Exporters Association (SGEA) has called for urgent government intervention to rescue gold exports and fuel imports, warning of “tampering” and irregularities that threaten the national economy.
The association demanded a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the widening gap between actual gold production and official export figures.
The SGEA complained of interference in gold exports by various entities, which they say has contributed to the deterioration of the exchange rate and limited the benefits of gold revenues for citizens. Sudan relies heavily on gold proceeds to fund the import of petroleum products to meet domestic needs.
In a press statement on Sunday, SGEA Chairman Abdel Moniem al-Siddiq said Sudan possesses significant gold wealth that should have eased the economic crisis, particularly given high global prices. However, he noted that these revenues are not properly reflected in the state treasury.
Al-Siddiq called on the head of the Sovereign Council and the Prime Minister to intervene immediately to save the sector, asserting that current violations pose a direct threat to the national economy.
He explained that while national gold production exceeds 70 tonnes annually—with estimated revenues surpassing $6 billion—Central Bank of Sudan (CBoS) reports show official exports do not exceed $2 billion. This disparity raises questions regarding the fate of the remaining proceeds.
The chairman accused currency traders and “unscrupulous individuals” of controlling a large portion of production for private gain at the expense of the economy and the public.
He emphasized the need for a transparent investigation and accountability for those involved in wasting resources or achieving illegal gains, stating that gold is a national asset that must support the economy and improve living conditions.
Al-Siddiq also called for urgent measures to regulate export operations and prevent smuggling to ensure gold revenues benefit the state during this critical phase.
Sudan primarily exports gold to the United Arab Emirates, as well as to Oman, Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, and several African nations.
Technical estimates suggest that between 48% and 60% of gold production is smuggled through informal channels.
Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim previously announced that gold production reached approximately 70 tonnes in 2025, while official exports did not exceed 20 tonnes.
The CBoS statistical brief reported that the country exported 14.7 tonnes of gold during the same year, generating $1.536 billion. Gold accounts for more than 58% of Sudan’s total exports.