Gum Arabic Producers Union: Securing Export Route Makes Transport Easier

Sudanhorizon – Hala Hamza
The head of the Sudanese General Cooperative Union of Natural Gum Producers in Sudan, Awadallah Ibrahim Adam, has affirmed that revitalizing gum arabic sector will shorten the time and reduce the high cost of transporting gum to Khartoum or international markets.
Adam told Sudanhorizon that the increased security situation will enable producers to cultivate the areas along this route, such as the Jebrat El- Sheikh area and others, most of which are production areas. He pointed out that the export route has made it easier for producers to move their produce from areas controlled by the Janjaweed militia and transport it to Jereikh, Jebra El-Sheikh, or areas near El Obeid.
Adam revealed the presence of large quantities of gum arabic, particularly in Al-Nuhud and Ayal Bakhit, areas still under rebel control. Producers had been unable to transport it, but with the liberation of the export route, they may have a better opportunity, leading to an increase in the supply of the crop in the market and a decrease in prices, which had seen a significant rise due to the end of the season. He confirmed that preparations are underway to begin the new season in September and October, and he anticipates a substantial increase in production.
The head of the Gum Producers Union downplayed the impact of Chad’s closure of the Adré border crossing on gum arabic exports, stating that Chad is the primary beneficiary of the crossing in terms of importing goods from Sudan.
Adam explained that the major losses inflicted on the gum arabic sector by the war stemmed from a decline in production due to insecurity in production areas, the migration and displacement of most producers to safer cities, and the loss of their crops and livestock. He called on the government to support producers and assist them in resuming production of this important cash crop and to compensate for the significant losses they suffered as a result of the war.

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