Ankara: Switzerland will impose a ban on the purchase and import of gold originating from Sudan and restrict the sale of certain goods used in gold mining and extraction, aligning with the European Union's sanctions, as announced by the Swiss government. The Federal Council expressed its concern over the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, highlighting gold as a critical resource fueling the ongoing conflict.

According to Anadolu Agency, the new measures will take effect on Thursday. They include prohibitions on the "purchase, import and transit" of Sudanese gold, alongside restrictions on related services and financial assistance. Furthermore, Switzerland will ban the "sale and supply to Sudan of certain goods" involved in gold mining, such as chemicals.

These actions align Switzerland with an EU decision from July 13, which targets gold trade originating from Sudan. The EU sanctions ban the "purchase, import and transfer" of Sudanese gold, as well as the sale and supply of mercury and cyanide to Sudan, chemicals commonly used in gold extraction. The EU's measures also cover related technical assistance, brokering services, and financial support.

Switzerland will incorporate these restrictions into its existing Ordinance on measures against Sudan, which has implemented UN sanctions since 2005. The ordinance has also facilitated the implementation of "additional EU measures" since 2023. The sanctions regime includes an arms embargo and targeted financial and travel restrictions against 36 individuals, entities, and companies.

The Federal Council emphasized Switzerland's "strict due diligence requirements" for gold and other precious metal imports, aimed at preventing trade in "conflict resources." The EU established its sanctions framework on Sudan in October 2023, following the outbreak of fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces in April.

The EU's framework has expanded to target those undermining Sudan's stability and political transition. In July, the EU further extended the regime to address Sudan's "war economy," aiming to "curb sources of financing for the conflict," with gold identified as a "key source of revenue sustaining the conflict."