Sudan Reshapes Its Gold Export Map: Egypt Takes the Lead as UAE Share Declines

Sudan’s gold exports underwent a significant shift in 2025, reflecting deep economic and political changes within the country, alongside a broader realignment of regional trade flows in the precious metals market.

Sharp Decline in Exports to the UAE

Recent data shows that Sudan’s gold exports to the UAE dropped markedly to around 8.2 tonnes in 2025, compared to 22.2 tonnes in 2024. This steep decline reduced the UAE’s share of Sudanese gold exports from approximately 99% to 56%.

Despite the drop in volumes, export revenues remained relatively resilient, reaching about $865 million, supported by elevated global gold prices.

Egypt Emerges as the Top Destination

In contrast, Sudan’s gold exports to Egypt surged dramatically, reaching approximately 4.9 tonnes valued at around $517 million—an increase of nearly 20 times compared to the previous year.

This surge positioned Egypt as the leading importer of Sudanese gold for the first time in years, marking a notable shift in regional trade dynamics.

Meanwhile, exports to the Sultanate of Oman also recorded growth, doubling to around 0.7 tonnes with a value of $77 million, highlighting increasing diversification in export destinations.

Drivers Behind the Shift: Politics and Informal Trade

This transformation is closely linked to ongoing political developments in Sudan, particularly the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which has disrupted supply chains and trade routes.

Estimates indicate that traditional and artisanal mining accounts for the majority of Sudan’s gold production, employing millions and operating largely outside formal structures.

At the same time, a significant gap persists between actual production and official export figures. While total production is estimated at around 70 tonnes in 2025, official exports are reported at only about 14.7 tonnes, pointing to widespread smuggling and a substantial informal market.

Historically, the UAE served as the primary destination for Sudanese gold—either directly or via transit through neighboring countries such as Egypt, Chad, Eritrea, and South Sudan. However, recent political and economic shifts have redirected a considerable portion of these flows.

A Regional Market in Transition

These developments signal a broader restructuring of the regional gold trade, with Egypt emerging as a growing hub for raw gold imports, while the UAE’s dominance appears to be moderating.

At the same time, gold continues to play a critical role as a key source of foreign currency for Sudan, amid ongoing efforts by authorities to regulate the sector, increase transparency, and curb smuggling.

Outlook

Although export volumes have declined, higher global gold prices have helped sustain export revenues. The redirection of trade flows toward Egypt underscores a strategic shift in Sudan’s gold export landscape—one that could have lasting implications for regional markets in the years ahead, particularly as political and economic uncertainties persist.