Khartoum, April 09 (Darfur24)
A new report by the Center for Environmental and Social Studies (CESS) has revealed that Sudanese gold linked to a refinery seized during the ongoing conflict continues to appear in global supply chains, raising concerns about the role of natural resources in financing the war.
According to the report, gold associated with Sudan Gold Refinery (Smelter ID: CID002567) was identified in international supply-chain disclosures, including the Volkswagen Group’s 2024 Responsible Raw Materials Report, despite the refinery having ceased operations after it was taken over by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in May 2023.
CESS stated that satellite imagery from 2023 to 2025 confirms the destruction of the refinery’s infrastructure and the halt of industrial activity. At the time of its capture, RSF forces reportedly seized at least 1.3 tonnes of gold and 15 tonnes of silver, which were prepared for export, with an estimated value of $150 million.
The report, based on field interviews, outlined alleged smuggling routes through neighboring countries such as Chad and South Sudan, where gold is said to enter regional markets before reaching international destinations, including major trading hubs.
The findings raise questions about the effectiveness of due diligence systems used by multinational companies. While Volkswagen has stated in its reports that it continues to strengthen its monitoring and red-flagging mechanisms, the report questions how materials linked to a conflict-affected source remain within global reporting frameworks.
Researchers emphasized that Sudan’s gold sector has become deeply intertwined with the conflict, providing a key source of revenue for armed actors. Over the past decade, military involvement in gold mining and trade has expanded significantly, further intensifying since the outbreak of war in April 2023.
The report also highlighted broader human rights and environmental concerns linked to gold extraction, including the use of hazardous substances such as mercury and cyanide, as well as allegations of child labor, forced displacement, and violence in mining areas.
CESS called on international companies to disclose their suppliers more transparently, conduct independent audits, and align strictly with international due diligence standards. It also urged the suspension of trade in gold linked to conflict zones and the implementation of stronger monitoring mechanisms to prevent its entry into global markets.
According to the report, addressing the role of natural resources, particularly gold, is essential to any effort aimed at ending the conflict in Sudan, warning that continued flows of conflict-linked resources risk prolonging the war and undermining peace efforts.