The European Union has banned EU companies and individuals from purchasing, importing or transporting gold originating in Sudan, aiming to cut off financing for the war that began in April 2023. EU foreign ministers also approved restrictions on exporting mercury and cyanide to Sudan, chemicals used in gold mining. The EU says gold has become a major source of revenue sustaining the conflict, and the measures are meant to reduce resources available to those fuelling violence. Sanctions target the trade but enforcement gaps remain.