Switzerland joins EU sanctions on Sudan gold trade
The Swiss Federal Council banned the import and transit of Sudanese gold, effective Thursday, aligning with EU measures to curb conflict resource funding.
Switzerland's Federal Council issued a ban on purchasing and importing gold from Sudan, which takes effect on Thursday. The decision prohibits not only the trade of gold but also its transit through Swiss territory, related services, and financial assistance connected to the sector. Additionally, the ban extends to selling specific chemicals used in gold mining and extraction to the region. Officials stated these actions align with the European Union's July 13 decision regarding Sudanese gold trade. The measures will integrate into Switzerland's existing Sudan sanctions ordinance, which includes an arms embargo and targeted financial restrictions against 36 individuals, entities, and companies. Officials described the ban as a response to extreme humanitarian concerns, labeling gold a key conflict resource fueling the war.
