2017–2018 Minerals Yearbook in Sudan

The 2017-2018 Minerals Yearbook by the U.S. Department of the Interior and U.S. Geological Survey provides a comprehensive analysis of Sudan's economy and mineral industry. The report reveals that Sudan's economy experienced a growth rate of 2.8% in 2018, a decrease from 4.7% in 2017. The industrial sector, contributing 21% of the GDP in both years, also saw a decrease in growth from 4.2% in 2017 to 2.7% in 2018. The report emphasizes the significant role of the mineral industry, particularly gold production, in Sudan's economy. Gold production, primarily by artisanal miners, has been on the rise since 2007, leading to Sudan becoming one of the top 10 gold producers in Africa in 2017. The report also discusses the government policies and programs affecting the mineral industry. The Mineral Wealth Development and Mining Act of 2015 grants the National Government ownership and absolute rights for exploration and mining of all mineral commodities in the country. The act also defines traditional or artisanal mining. Artisanal mining, practiced by over a million people in 14 out of the 18 states in Sudan, is a significant contributor to the economy. The Ministry of Minerals (MOM) is the government agency responsible for mineral exploration and geologic surveys in Sudan, implementing government policies and promoting investment in mining activities. The report concludes by highlighting the lifting of U