Sudan’s gold exports rose sharply in April and May 2026, surpassing the total recorded in the first quarter of the year, as improved logistics and processing capacity supported higher shipments despite ongoing economic and security challenges.
The Sudanese Standards and Metrology Authority said gold exports by companies reached 4.855 tonnes over the two-month period, exceeding the 4.195 tonnes exported in the entire first quarter of 2026.
The agency added that its technical teams processed and inspected substantial volumes of precious metals during the period, including 1.557 tonnes of locally produced gold bullion, 305 kilograms of gold destined for manufacturing and reprocessing, and 164 kilograms of locally crafted jewellery.
Silver exports also contributed to overall trade activity, with 44 kilograms of raw silver and 101 kilograms of processed silver items recorded. Combined gold and silver transactions during the period amounted to more than 7.313 tonnes.
A sector official in Red Sea State, Al-Walid Mohamed Osman, said export operations would continue uninterrupted during the Eid al-Adha holiday, citing improved logistical arrangements and streamlined regulatory procedures that helped facilitate higher shipment volumes.
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Gold remains one of Sudan’s most important export commodities and a critical source of foreign currency amid prolonged economic instability. The country’s total gold production was estimated at around 70 tonnes last year, although official export figures remain significantly lower due to widespread informal mining and smuggling.
Authorities say the gap between production and formal exports reflects structural challenges in the sector, including weak oversight, conflict-related disruptions and the dominance of artisanal mining networks.
Artisanal mining is estimated to employ around two million people across Sudan and accounts for a large share of the country’s gold supply chain. Much of this production is processed through informal channels, including the recycling of mining residues locally known as “karta.”
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Analysts say efforts to increase official export volumes are aimed at improving foreign exchange earnings and strengthening state control over the sector, though persistent insecurity and fragmented production systems continue to limit regulatory reach.
Despite these challenges, the recent rise in exports suggests incremental improvements in export logistics and compliance mechanisms, particularly in regions less affected by conflict.
The gold sector has become increasingly important to Sudan’s external accounts, especially as traditional export sectors face constraints and foreign investment remains limited due to political uncertainty.
Officials say continued reforms in export monitoring and processing infrastructure will be key to sustaining recent gains and narrowing the gap between actual production and recorded exports in the coming months.
