Export Control Updates

Latest news

  • OFSI General Licences

    Source: UK OFSI updates
    Summary: The press release details the issuance of general licences by the UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI). These licences permit specific activities otherwise prohibited under financial sanctions, allowing certain transactions or dealings without requiring individual licences. The actions aim to facilitate compliance while maintaining sanctions effectiveness. Further details, including the scope and conditions of the licences, are provided in the original article.
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  • Adjusting Imports of Polysilicon and Its Derivatives Into the United States

    Source: US Executive Office of the President
    Summary: This proclamation imposes trade restrictions on polysilicon and its derivatives under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, citing national security concerns. It establishes minimum import prices, tariffs, and incentives to bolster U.S. production of critical semiconductor and solar supply chain materials. The measure aims to counter foreign distortions, reduce dependency on imports, and protect domestic technology and economic security. While not an export control or sanctions action, it reflects protectionist policies to safeguard strategic industries.
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  • Continuing To Protect the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship

    Source: US Executive Office of the President
    Summary: This executive order restricts birthright citizenship for children of foreign nationals linked to terrorism, foreign government employment, or fraudulent citizenship schemes. While not directly addressing export controls (ITAR/EAR) or technology protection, it intersects with sanctions by targeting individuals tied to designated terrorist organizations or foreign entities under U.S. restrictions. The policy enforces compliance with existing sanctions frameworks, such as the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. It reflects broader national security measures to limit foreign influence and preserve citizenship integrity.
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  • Committee on Security and Defence, European Parliament

    Source: EU Chips Act updates
    Summary: CELEX:52026IP0020: P10_TA(2026)0020 – Drones and new systems of warfare – the EU’s need to adapt to be fit for today’s security challenges – European Parliament resolution of 22 January 2026 on drones and new systems of warfare – the EU’s need to adapt to be fit for today’s security challenges (2025/2088(INI))
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  • Notice of OFAC Sanctions Actions

    Source: US OFAC news
    Summary: The notice details OFAC sanctions actions, including updates to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. One entity and two aircraft were removed from the list, while an individual’s designation was updated to reflect ties to the IRGC-Qods Force. These actions fall under U.S. sanctions programs, not export control legislation. The changes impact blocked property and interests under Executive Order 13224.
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  • Updated version of Regulation (EU) No 269/2014

    Source: DEU-Zoll updates
    Summary: The regulation on restrictive measures in response to actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine is available for download.
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  • Committee on Security and Defence, European Parliament

    Source: EU Chips Act updates
    Summary: CELEX:52026IP0020: P10_TA(2026)0020 – Drones and new systems of warfare – the EU’s need to adapt to be fit for today’s security challenges – European Parliament resolution of 22 January 2026 on drones and new systems of warfare – the EU’s need to adapt to be fit for today’s security challenges (2025/2088(INI))
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  • Notice of OFAC Sanctions Action

    Source: US OFAC news
    Summary: The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has sanctioned 9 individuals and 14 entities under Executive Orders 14059 and 13224 for their involvement in the global illicit drug trade and links to terrorism. These sanctions block all U.S. property and interests of the designated persons and prohibit U.S. entities from engaging in transactions with them. The designations target key figures and businesses in Mexico, Guatemala, and India, including those linked to the Sinaloa Cartel. The action underscores OFAC’s efforts to disrupt international drug trafficking and associated financial networks.
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  • DPAS Directive Allocation Order and Additional Requirements for Recoverable Critical Minerals and Materials

    Source: US BIS news
    Summary: This temporary final rule, issued by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), restricts the export of ‘black mass’ (lithium-ion battery scrap) and tungsten waste and scrap without a license, mandating 100% allocation of monthly sales to U.S. persons unless an exception is granted. It is enacted under the Defense Production Act (DPA) to secure critical minerals essential for national defense, aligning with export control measures to prevent scarcity and supply chain disruptions. The rule introduces a Directive Allocation Order under the Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) and requires compliance with U.S. export control regulations. BIS may grant adjustments or exceptions on a case-by-case basis, emphasizing the urgency of safeguarding recoverable critical materials.
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  • Notice of OFAC Sanctions Action

    Source: US OFAC news
    Summary: The notice announces OFAC’s designation of individuals, entities, and vessels to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List under U.S. sanctions authorities, including Executive Order 13902. This action blocks their property under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibits transactions with them by U.S. persons. The designations stem from violations of sanctions programs, not export control laws like ITAR or EAR. The focus is on enforcing economic and trade restrictions tied to national security and foreign policy objectives.
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