The conflict in Sudan has led to control of gum arabic production by the RSF, resulting in smuggling and unregulated trade. Traders report selling gum arabic without proper certification while offering it at low prices, raising concerns about the legality and sourcing. Major ingredient suppliers are seeking to navigate these challenges amid the ongoing war, which disrupts conventional trade channels.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has significantly impacted the gum arabic trade, as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group, seized significant gum-harvesting regions in Kordofan and Darfur. This situation has led to a system in which gum arabic produced in these areas can only be officially sold by local traders, who must pay a fee to the RSF. Consequently, several traders have reported that they are exporting the commodity without proper certification, utilizing informal border markets to reach neighboring countries.
The RSF has claimed to protect the gum arabic trade while collecting only minor fees, refuting claims of illegal activities as propaganda targeted at them. In the meantime, traders from countries less known for gum production have begun offering it at competitive prices, often without necessary proof regarding its sourcing. Sudan remains the leading exporter of gum arabic, largely due to its vast acacia tree groves, yet the ongoing conflict raises questions about the legitimacy of these supplies.
Experts and industry representatives note that it is difficult for buyers to trace the origins of gum arabic currently available on the market. Many traders deliberately obscure their product origins, making it plausible that all gum coming from Sudan is smuggled due to the absence of effective authority. Despite a public statement from the Association for International Promotion of Gums denying any links to conflict, sources express concerns over the emerging, less transparent gum trade that may undermine global ingredient procurement.
Major ingredient companies are responding to the mounting pressure, as Ingredion announced efforts to ensure all transactions are legitimate and diversified its sourcing, while Nexira resorted to cutting imports from Sudan. Other companies, such as Alland & Robert, and brands like Nestlé and Coca-Cola, have opted not to comment on the evolving situation.
Traders in Sudan are actively communicating with buyers about low-priced gum arabic, often resulting in offers that raise suspicions about the products’ legality. Various traders have suggested they can supply gum arabic at prices far below market value, without providing the required Sedex certification, a standard for ethical sourcing. Existing fears indicate that these low-sourced offers likely stem from the RSF-controlled smuggling operations.
Following the chaos following the war, conventional supply chains have collapsed, with gum arabic now being traded in informal markets near South Sudan. Much of this activity operates with RSF protection, with traders paying for their services, further entrenching the armed group in the management of this valuable resource. Transactions are reportedly happening across borders, connecting West Kordofan traders with buyers in South Sudan and the Central African Republic, showcasing a stark shift in traditional trade routes.
In conclusion, the gum arabic trade in Sudan has been severely disrupted by conflict, leading to a rise in smuggling activities under the control of the Rapid Support Forces. While Sudan continues to be the primary producer of gum arabic, the integrity and ethical sourcing of this commodity are increasingly at stake, as the absence of proper oversight fosters illegal operations. Global ingredient suppliers must navigate these challenges while ensuring compliance with international standards.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
