Exportcontrol

Exportcontrol refers to the set of laws, regulations and procedures that govern the export of goods, software, and technology from a country to other destinations. Its aim is to protect national security, foreign policy interests, and economic security, while enabling legitimate trade. Export controls distinguish between dual-use items (civilian goods with potential military or proliferation applications) and strictly military or strategic items. Control lists identify items subject to licensing, often by technical parameters like classification numbers (ECCN in the United States, dual-use lists in the European Union). Licenses are required for many exports, with risk-based exemptions and license exceptions.

Control regimes can be bilateral or multilateral. Multilateral regimes include the Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls for Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Australia Group, and the Missile Technology Control Regime. In the United States, export controls are administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security (EAR) and the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (ITAR). The European Union uses the Dual-Use Regulation and national authorities; the United Kingdom maintains its own Strategic Export Controls.

Key obligations for exporters include item classification, end-use and end-user screening, license applications, recordkeeping, and compliance programs to prevent diversion, unauthorized re-exports, or use to contravene sanctions. Violations can trigger civil and criminal penalties, export bans, and reputational damage. Export control intersects with sanctions regimes, foreign investment controls, and technology transfer policies. Businesses must assess risk across supply chains, maintain due diligence, and adapt to changing lists and licensing policies in a dynamic international regime.