How is gum arabic fuelling the war in Sudan?

Sudan, previously the world's top exporter of gum arabic, a key ingredient in numerous global products, is now seeing the commodity fuel its ongoing conflict. Since the war began in April 2023, official Sudanese gum arabic exports have declined, while exports from neighboring countries have increased. This suggests that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are smuggling gum arabic to finance their war efforts. Gum arabic, derived from acacia trees, is vital for the food, beverage, and cosmetic industries, with international corporations importing nearly 200,000 tonnes annually. Despite past sanctions on Sudan, gum arabic was exempted due to its global importance, highlighting its significant role in the conflict's economics.