Sanctions were imposed concerning Sudan(external link) in 2004 by resolution 1556 and extended over time.
United Nations Sanctions (Sudan) Regulations 2004
New Zealand's sanctions regulations(external link) came into force on 20 December 2004, and amendments to these regulations came into force on 1 September 2022. These regulations apply to all persons inside New Zealand and to New Zealand citizens outside New Zealand.
A person breaching the sanctions regulations could be liable for up to 12 months imprisonment or a fine of up to $10,000. A company breaching the sanctions regulations could be liable for a fine of up to $100,000.
Some of the key restrictions in the sanctions regulations are outlined below. The following list is a summary only and is not comprehensive. We recommend that you look at the detailed regulations and obtain independent legal advice when making decisions about dealings with people or entities in Sudan.
Arms embargo
The regulations prohibit the direct and indirect export of arms from New Zealand to Sudan (with some exceptions). The regulations also prohibit loading or carrying such arms onto a ship or aircraft, and other transactions or dealing with arms that are intended for Sudan (see regulations 4-11).
If you (or the New Zealand Government) are required by the regulations to notify the United Nations Security Council Committee about an export or the provision of assistance or training, please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade at exportcontrols@mfat.govt.nz.
Asset Freeze
The regulations prohibit transferring, selling, or otherwise dealing with any property (including assets, money or securities) that is owned or controlled by a designated person or entity(external link) or a person or entity acting on their behalf (see regulations 13A-13C).
Training and assistance
The regulations prohibit providing any technical training or assistance related to the provision, manufacture, maintenance or use of any arms to anyone in Sudan (see regulation 12).
Travel ban
The regulations prohibit people designated by the UN(external link) from entering or transiting through New Zealand unless entry or transit would be consistent with the UNSC’s determinations (see regulation 13D).