China Halts Copper Deal in Sudan’s Red Sea State, Officials Silent on

Sudanese media outlets have reported that China has halted progress on a major copper exploration agreement in the Red Sea State, reigniting debate over the deal’s future. The reports cite unnamed sources indicating the Chinese side has ceased moving forward with the arrangement, which first drew widespread criticism after its details emerged in June 2026.

Terms and local opposition

The controversy began in June 2026, when reports surfaced describing a potential agreement granting a Chinese company exclusive copper exploration rights in the Red Sea State for 30 years. The deal was valued at approximately $300 million, with Sudan reportedly entitled to no more than 30% of the profits. In response, the Eastern Sudan Advisory Council and local forces called for an immediate suspension of all resource-related contracts in the region until legislative oversight is established and environmental, economic, and social impact studies—conducted with full participation of local communities—are completed.

No official confirmation of withdrawal

To date, no official document has been published confirming China’s definitive withdrawal from the copper project. This ambiguity carries particular weight given that Sudan’s Minister of Minerals, Nour Al-Daim Taher, visited China in September and held meetings with Chinese officials and companies to expand cooperation in mining and geological exploration, as well as to attract additional Chinese investment into Sudan’s mineral sector. As a result, the most precise characterization of the current situation remains that of unconfirmed reports citing a pause or suspension of the deal—pending formal clarification on its final status and definitive terms.