How a Key Ingredient in Coca-Cola, M&M's Is Smuggled From War-Torn Sudan.
Gum arabic, essential for products like Coca-Cola and M&M's, is increasingly trafficked from conflict zones in Sudan, complicating supply chains for Western companies seeking to ensure ethical sourcing. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) control the main harvesting regions, leading to a rise in smuggled gum that lacks conflict-free certification and is sold at lower prices in informal markets. This situation raises concerns about the integrity of global supply chains and the ethical implications for companies reliant on this vital ingredient.
- The emergence of smuggled gum arabic highlights the complex interplay between conflict, commerce, and ethical sourcing, potentially forcing major brands to reevaluate their supply chain strategies amidst growing scrutiny.
- What measures can companies take to ensure their supply chains remain ethical and sustainable in regions experiencing significant conflict and instability?