The RSF in Sudan controls gum arabic, an essential ingredient for Coca-Cola and Pepsi, significantly impacting supply chain dynamics. Amid ongoing civil warfare, human rights violations have escalated, affecting both local communities and global companies. As firms face operational challenges and market boycotts, ethical sourcing practices are under increased scrutiny.
In Sudan, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are controlling access to gum arabic, an essential ingredient for Coca-Cola and Pepsi products. Gum arabic is derived from the sap of acacia trees and is critical in various consumer goods. Sudan supplies approximately 70% of the world’s gum arabic, primarily harvested from regions under RSF control, affecting distribution and supply chains significantly.
Hisham Salih Yagoub, CEO of Afritec, a major supplier, stated that he pays the RSF $2,500 per truck for transport to ports. He noted that shipments often face disruptions and extortion from the RSF, with risks of theft or forced payments exacerbating transportation difficulties.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in civil conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). This conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, displacing 12.5 million people and causing thousands of casualties. The RSF has been implicated in severe human rights violations, including sexual assaults and extrajudicial killings.
Additionally, the SAF has implemented fees on gum arabic, totaling approximately $155 per 100kg for transportation from Port Sudan. This means that exporting gum arabic often involves paying factions implicated in war crimes, complicating ethical sourcing for companies involved.
Coca-Cola and PepsiCo did not respond to requests for comment on the situation. However, Nestlé emphasized its commitment to ethical sourcing practices, while Mars expressed its opposition to corruption, stating it is monitoring the situation closely. Meanwhile, both Coca-Cola and Pepsi have faced boycotts in the Middle East due to geopolitical issues, resulting in a 7% sales decline as reported by NielsenIQ.
The RSF’s control over gum arabic access in Sudan highlights significant ethical challenges for Coca-Cola and Pepsi, especially amidst ongoing civil conflict and human rights abuses. As companies navigate supply chain integrity, heightened scrutiny and market boycotts stem from both humanitarian crises and geopolitical tensions. The evolving situation requires companies to reassess their sourcing strategies and align with responsible practices.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
