Export Control: BIS Case Studies on U.S. Export Control Law

Arne Mielken
Aug 13, 2024
2 min read

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) Export Enforcement, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, has released an updated version of "Don't Let This Happen to You!" In the July 2024 edition, BIS illustrates through case studies the consequences of violating U.S. export control laws. The current edition features new cases highlighting BIS’s criminal and administrative enforcement efforts.

New Cases in the Current Edition

The latest edition describes new cases, including a self-disclosure by an academic institution, violations of anti-boycott regulations, breaches of export rules regarding China and Iran, and non-compliance with a BIS settlement agreement. BIS also lists incidents that clarify the strict rules for exporting firearms. The publication was last updated in March 2024. BIS regularly publishes notices and arrests related to illegal exports, such as those involving Russia.

Guide on Evasion Schemes and "Compliance Note"

In addition to the revised case collection, BIS released a short guide on evasion schemes on July 10, 2024. This guide includes tips for companies and academic institutions. Moreover, in March 2024, the U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Department of the Treasury, and U.S. Department of Justice issued a joint "Compliance Note" focusing on the obligations of non-U.S. persons and companies to comply with U.S. sanctions and export control laws, as well as recent enforcement actions.

BIS Enforces Export Controls

The Bureau of Industry and Security is an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce that deals with export controls and promotes U.S. technological leadership. BIS’s tasks include enforcing U.S. export controls globally and ensuring that the country’s sensitive technologies and goods "do not fall into the world's most dangerous hands." The agency also promotes compliance with international agreements and treaties and supports technological development and innovation in the U.S.

Our Recommendations

With the "Don't Let This Happen to You!" guide, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) aims to give exporting companies an idea of the practical consequences of non-compliance with U.S. export control laws and regulations. The publication also includes useful contact addresses for reporting export control violations to BIS.

Keep in mind

European companies must also adhere to U.S. export control law, as the U.S. enforces its export regulations worldwide and imposes sanctions for violations. A breach of U.S. (re-)export control law can trigger existential risks, so it is crucial to implement appropriate compliance programs!

Training in Export Controls

The experts at Customs Manager Ltd can show you how—and inform you about U.S. export control law in our export control offerings.

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