Financial Crime World

OFAC Sanctions List Search in Sudan Reveals Complex Web of Restrictions

The US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has imposed a range of sanctions on Sudan in response to the country’s alleged support for international terrorism and human rights abuses. However, these restrictions have evolved over time, with some measures being lifted while others remain in place.

Sanctions History

Initial Sanctions Imposed

In 1997, then-US President Bill Clinton declared a national emergency with respect to Sudan under Executive Order 13067, which prohibited imports to and exports from the country. This order also empowered the US Treasury to impose assets freezes and travel bans on individuals and entities linked to the Government of Sudan.

Sanctions Eased in 2020

However, in 2020, the listing of Sudan as a State Sponsor of Terrorism was rescinded by the US Department of State. This move effectively lifted several sanctions restrictions imposed under the Terrorism List Governments Sanctions Regulations (TLGSR) and other laws.

Current Sanctions

Despite this development, some sanctions remain in place. Executive Order 14098, issued in May 2023, authorizes assets freezes, travel bans, and other restrictive measures against individuals and entities deemed to be destabilizing Sudan or undermining the country’s democratic transition.

Individuals and Entities Subject to Sanctions

A search of the OFAC Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list reveals that several individuals and entities are currently subject to sanctions related to Sudan. These include:

  • The Government of Sudan itself
  • Various military leaders and other officials accused of human rights abuses
  • Individuals and entities deemed to be destabilizing Sudan or undermining the country’s democratic transition

General Licenses for Certain Transactions

The OFAC SDN list also includes several general licenses that allow for certain transactions related to Sudan, such as:

  • Official business with international organizations
  • Humanitarian activities
  • Legitimate interactions between US persons and Sudanese entities

These licenses are designed to facilitate legitimate interactions between US persons and Sudanese entities while minimizing the risk of running afoul of sanctions restrictions.

Conclusion

A search of the OFAC SDN list reveals a complex web of sanctions restrictions on Sudan that have evolved over time in response to changing circumstances. While some measures have been lifted, others remain in place to address ongoing concerns about human rights abuses and support for international terrorism.