World ECR | UK announces sanctions regime targeting people
Home > information > UK announces sanctions regime targeting people smugglers The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (“FCDO”) has announced that the UK government will establish the world’s first independent sanctions regime targeting people smuggling networks and irregular migration. The notice said: “Today, 9 January, the UK Government has signaled our intention to introduce a new sanctions regime targeting irregular migration and organized migration crime as part of the Government’s efforts to target criminal gangs who profit from the illegal people smuggling trade. ." explained. A day earlier, British Foreign Secretary David Lamy said, "I am proud to announce that the UK will be the first country in the world to legislate a new sanctions regime specifically targeting irregular migration and organized migration crime." The new system, expected to be implemented within the year, will enable authorities to target individuals and entities undertaking dangerous travel, with sanctions experts working with law enforcement to curb illicit financial flows. Lamy said…
World ECR | US Department of Commerce expands space
Home > information > U.S. Commerce Department expands space export control oversight The U.S. Department of Commerce has significantly expanded its role in commercial space activities, including launching a new "space traffic security system" and simplifying satellite export controls, according to a report released by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Office of Space Commerce. "DOD Industry and Security Administration provides significant regulatory relief to the U.S. aerospace industry, particularly with regard to the export of spacecraft and related items to U.S. allies and partners by streamlining related export controls," the report released on January 14 said. The U.S. Department of Commerce noted that it has implemented a faster licensing process for commercial remote sensing satellites, shortening approval times to an average of 21 days, while eliminating "dozens of conditions in its licenses that previously restricted the full operation of U.S. remote sensing companies." The U.S. Department of Commerce said it has also initiated international coordination efforts to conduct joint analysis…
World ECR | Russia slams sanctions on Gazprom, energy companies
Russia has dismissed tough new U.S. sanctions targeting its energy industry, calling them a desperate move by the outgoing government and vowing the measures will not undermine its oil and gas industry or its position as a "key and reliable player in the global fuel market." . The Russian Foreign Ministry said on January 11 that Washington's "hostile actions will not go unanswered" and described the sanctions as an attempt to "cause damage to the Russian economy at all costs, even at the risk of destabilizing global markets." . The announcement came in response to widespread sanctions announced on January 10 by the United States and the United Kingdom in coordinated action. The U.S. measures target more than 200 entities and individuals, including two major Russian oil producers. More than 180 ships and dozens of shipping companies were also sanctioned, a move Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said was aimed at destroying "Russia's main source of revenue to fund its brutal…
World ECR | Japan expands sanctions on Russian industry
Home > information > Japan expands sanctions on Russia, bans exports of industrial products Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) announced on January 10 that Japan would ban the export of 335 industrial products to Russia and impose new restrictions on companies from six countries suspected of supporting Moscow's defense industry. Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said the cabinet approved measures to ban the export of "special vehicle engines and parts, scooters, audio equipment, tools, valves" and other goods that could strengthen Russia's industrial base. These restrictions are effective from January 23. "In light of the current international situation surrounding Ukraine, and in order for Japan to contribute to international efforts for world peace," the government will also impose export controls on companies in the United Arab Emirates, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Thailand and Turkey, the ministry said. Starting January 17th. The measures were implemented through changes to Japan's export trade control order, following Tokyo's decision last…
World ECR | BIS bans Chinese and Russian technologies
According to a January 14 announcement, the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced a final rule banning certain connected car technologies from China and Russia, citing national security risks associated with potential data collection and remote control capabilities. "BIS and its Office of Information Communications Technology and Services (OICTS) have found that certain technologies originating from China or Russia pose inappropriate and unacceptable risks to U.S. national security," the announcement said. "Today's cars are more than just steel on wheels - they are computers. They have cameras, microphones, GPS tracking and other technology connected to the internet," said U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. "With this rule, the Department of Commerce is taking necessary steps to safeguard U.S. national security." In the United States, the rule prohibits the import and sale of Vehicle Connectivity System (“VCS”) hardware and software and Autonomous Driving System (“ADS”) software with “sufficient ties” to China or Russia. VCS includes "telematics control units, Bluetooth, cellular,…
World ECR | BAFA will modernize export controls as
Home > information > BAFA modernizes export controls as part of 'growth agenda' The German government said the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action ("BMWK") will "immediately implement a further package of measures through the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) to accelerate and optimize export control procedures." The report said this would " Promote the export of certain weapons and dual-use products and further simplify the administrative procedures for export control, but the testing standards for export control will not be affected by this.” BMWK State Secretary Bernhard Kluttig said in a statement: "BMWK and BAFA have agreed to work together from September 2023 to March 2024. Three packages were launched during the month to continue accelerating export operations. These measures are working: since then, both the number of open applications and processing times have dropped significantly. With the fourth package of measures, we have now gone one step further. These targeted measures, including…
World ECR | BIS: 15 Export Control and Sanctions Offenses
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) filed 15 criminal cases in 2024 alleging sanctions and export control violations, conspiracy to smuggle, and other crimes related to the transfer of sensitive technology to China, Russia, and the United States. According to the agency's annual review released on January 2, Iran strikes through disruptive technology strike forces. The multi-agency strike force expanded from 14 to 17 locations last year, with new cells in Texas, Georgia and North Carolina targeting multiple illicit Russian procurement networks. Key actions include obtaining "a guilty plea from a defendant who played a key role in the export of sensitive electronic components to Russia for the development of nuclear and hypersonic weapons" and the prosecution and extradition of "a Russian-German citizen from Cyprus" for Russian defense The base purchases a large number of microelectronic products. Along with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and other enforcement partners, BIS has also imposed significant financial penalties,…
World ECR | UK revise VTB bank asset sanctions license
December 2, 2024 We are pleased to announce WorldECR is now part of Dow Jones Risk & Compliance By combining WorldECR's in-depth reporting and insights with Dow Jones' industry-leading news, data and analysis, we can help trade compliance practitioners and their advisors better navigate the increasingly complex trade compliance environment. Learn more about WorldECR and Dow Jones Risk & Compliance Please check the announcement.
World ECR | US adds tech giant Tencent and battery maker CATL
The U.S. Department of Defense ("DOD") has named Chinese technology group Tencent Holdings, electric vehicle battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology ("CATL") and shipping giant COSCO Group as companies with ties to the Chinese military. The Pentagon added 134 new companies to the Section 1260H list of "Chinese military companies operating in the United States" under the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, according to a Jan. 7 Federal Register notice, including 134 new companies included in the list each year. Update once. COSCO Shipping Co., Ltd. is a global company whose U.S. operations include COSCO Shipping (North America) Co., Ltd. and COSCO Shipping Finance Co., Ltd. The designation expands a growing list of major Chinese companies that the Defense Department has identified as having military ties. Companies on the list may face restrictions on their operations and commercial transactions in the United States, but there will be no immediate bans or action. The notice also removes six previously listed entities, including…
World ECR | UK releases guidance on anti-Russia sanctions
Home > information > UK publishes guidance against Russia evading sanctions through third countries The British government has issued detailed guidance for companies to combat Russia's efforts to circumvent sanctions through a network of third-country procurement, warning that Moscow continues to purchase Western military and dual-use goods despite trade restrictions. The U.S. Department of Commerce and Trade stated in guidance issued on January 7 that "Russia will go to great lengths to circumvent sanctions and continue to procure Western military, dual-use and other critical goods, including off-battlefield technology, through third countries." The document states that 14 countries, including China, India, Turkey and several Central Asian countries, require "enhanced due diligence" on certain export products, while noting that these jurisdictions are "taking steps to reduce" the flow of sensitive goods. Russia. Major high-risk projects include integrated circuits, electronic components, manufacturing equipment, industrial machinery, aerospace instruments and automotive parts. The guidance warns that Russian procurement networks often use "deceptive tactics" such as…
World ECR | EU imposes first sanctions on Russian hybrid cars
Home > information > EU imposes first sanctions over Russia's hybrid warfare operations The European Council announced on December 16 that the EU had imposed sanctions for the first time in response to "Russian hybrid threats" and designated 16 individuals and 3 entities "responsible for Russia's destabilizing behavior abroad." The measures target those whose "actions and policies of the Russian Federation undermine the fundamental values of the EU and its member states, its security, stability, independence and integrity, as well as those of international organizations and third countries." Through a variety of hybrid activities, including the use of coordinated message manipulation and disruption. The designations include GRU Unit 29155, a clandestine unit within Russia's military intelligence service that the Security Council said is known for assassinations and destabilizing activities, and the pan-African business and investment group, described as "a group that conducts pro-government Russian disinformation network.” covert influence operations, particularly in the Central African Republic and Burkina Faso.” The committee…
World ECR | UK reveals shift in Israeli export licensing
Home > information > UK reveals changes to Israeli export licenses amid wider tightening controls Official data released by the UK Department of Business and Trade on December 10 showed that the UK rejected 17 applications for military export licenses to Israel between September and December 2024, compared with no rejections in the previous quarter. The increased scrutiny of Israeli exports comes amid tighter UK export controls, with the number of refusals to issue Standard Individual Export Licenses (“SIELs”) reaching a record high. According to separate statistics released on December 12, the total number of visa refusals for all destinations has exceeded 100 every quarter since the end of 2022, well above the historical average of 74 refusals per quarter since 2008. The Department of Commerce and Trade (DBT) reported in its latest transparency data that 16 of Israel’s current 368 export licenses have been suspended, including for F-16 fighter jets, drones, naval systems and targeting equipment. parts. The department's…
World ECR | Nordic-Baltic Countries and Partner Requirements
The 12 Nordic-Baltic 8++ countries have announced coordinated measures to combat Russia's "shadow tanker fleet" that transports Russian oil in violation of G7 price caps, with the operation focusing on insurance verification at key maritime chokepoints. The dozen countries (Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden and the United Kingdom) said in a joint statement that they "are instructing their respective maritime authorities to require relevant proof of insurance." Suspected shadow ships passed through the English Channel, the Great Belt, the channel between Denmark and Sweden, and the Gulf of Finland. "The Shadow Fleet poses risks to the environment, maritime safety and security, international maritime trade, and international maritime law and standards. It also works to circumvent our sanctions and mitigate their impact," their Dec. 16 statement said. The initiative aims to “expose malignant maritime activities and address the risks they pose, in accordance with our respective legal systems and international law.” In issuing a…
World ECR | U.S. Department of Justice cracks down on Russian sanctions evasion
Home > information > U.S. Department of Justice charges two individuals over Russian sanctions evasion U.S. authorities have unveiled charges in two separate cases involving Russia's sanctions evasion scheme, including one involving a Russian national who assisted a sanctioned oligarch and another freight forwarding manager who allegedly facilitated illegal exports to Russia. According to a December 12 announcement from the U.S. Department of Justice, 53-year-old Alexey Komov is accused of helping sanctioned oligarch Konstantin Komov through schemes and illegal asset transfers involving employees of U.S. television networks. Konstantin Malofeyev violated US sanctions. Separately, Natalya Ivanovna Mazulina, 41, was arrested in Seattle on December 10 on suspicion of assisting in the illegal shipment of controlled industrial equipment to Russia. U.S. Attorney Breon Peace said, "As alleged, Mazurina used her position as manager of a freight forwarding company to facilitate illegal exports to Russia through JFK Airport," she noted. She allegedly told colleagues that her clients were using third-country bank accounts because…
World ECR | EU officially adopts 15th Russian sanctions package
Home > information > The EU officially adopts the 15th Russian sanctions package targeting the Shadow Fleet and Chinese companies The European Council announced on December 16 that the EU had officially adopted the 15th sanctions package against Russia, targeting Moscow's "Shadow Fleet" oil tankers and the military-industrial complex, and at the same time imposing sanctions for the first time on Chinese companies that support Moscow's war efforts. Russia continues its brutal attacks on Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Karas said the package of sanctions is part of our response to weaken the Russian war machine and the initiators of this war, which also include Chinese companies. The measures include sanctions against 54 individuals and 30 entities, including those responsible for an attack on a children's hospital in Kiev, energy sector managers and officials involved in the deportations of children. The EU also imposed "comprehensive sanctions" on a number of Chinese companies that supply drone…
World ECR | Export Control Enforcement “Shift”
Matthew Axelrod, assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), told the Practicing Law Institute that in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, BIS (BIS) has significantly expanded law enforcement capabilities and international partnerships while intensifying operations against China and Iran. PLI') Export Control Meeting on December 9. Axelrod said export enforcement is more important now than ever in preventing sensitive U.S. technology from being used for malicious purposes by our adversaries. Large-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The agency has reached unprecedented levels of enforcement and cooperation, establishing new multilateral enforcement mechanisms and increasing penalties for violators. Axelrod said in his speech that we have changed our procedures - making our charging letters public, canceling "no admit, no denial" settlements and increasing fines for serious violations. "The powers we have under the Export Control Reform Act are powerful." The Disruptive Technology Strike Force, launched in February 2022 with the Department of Justice,…
World ECR | State Council finalizes ITAR registration fees
Home > information > The U.S. Department of State finalizes ITAR registration fee increases in 2025 The U.S. Department of State has finalized an increase in International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) registration fees, with the higher rates effective January 2025, pursuant to a final rule issued on December 10. The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls ("DDTC") stated: "This increase is necessary because DDTC's operations are primarily funded by fees. Without sufficient growth to meet operating costs that have increased significantly since 2008, DDTC will face difficulty sustaining budget deficit and was forced to reduce its services. The new three-tier structure increases the base fee for Tier 1 enrollees to $3,000 per year, an increase of 33.1%. Level 2 registrants will pay $4,000, while Level 3 registration fees will be calculated as "$4,000 plus $1,100 multiplied by the total number of more than five favorable decisions." The department said it recognizes and understands the concerns raised by stakeholders commenting on…
World ECR | UK expands sanctions enforcement powers
Home > information > UK expands sanctions enforcement powers by reforming financial sanctions guidance According to an announcement on December 5, the UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) updated its guidance on multiple sanctions regimes to strengthen its enforcement capabilities and strengthen compliance monitoring. The changes are made under the Sanctions (EU Exit) (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 2) Regulations 2024 and are intended to “enhance OFSI’s ability to gather intelligence on industry compliance with financial sanctions, strengthen OFSI’s enforcement powers and enable OFSI to It will be able to carry out its licensing responsibilities more effectively and clarify uncertainties surrounding financial sanctions legislation, the office said. The updated guidance covers multiple sanctions programs, including Russia, Belarus, Iraq, Sudan, Libya, Syria, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Zimbabwe, Guinea, Haiti, Somalia, Lebanon, Myanmar, Central African Republic, cyber sanctions, counterterrorism, global human rights , global corruption, unauthorized drilling, Iran nuclear sanctions, and more. https://www.gov.uk/search/all?organizations()=office-of-financial-sanctions-implementation&order=updat ed-newest&parent=office-of-financial-sanctions-implementation Looking for expert advice on export controls or sanctions issues? Subscribe…
World ECR | Dutch exports to risk-averse countries
Home > information > Dutch exports to risk-averse countries surge, study finds A December 10 study by Statistics Netherlands (CBS) showed that Dutch exports of EU-sanctioned goods to seven countries identified as high-risk for evading sanctions have increased significantly since 2022, although direct exports to Russia fell by 86 % and University of Groningen. CBS said that while this form of sanctions evasion is not directly observable in CBS statistics, it can be investigated to which countries exports of sanctioned products increase disproportionately. The study lists Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Serbia, Türkiye and Turkmenistan as countries exhibiting questionable trade patterns. “For these destinations, Dutch exports of sanctioned goods to Russia increased significantly and strongly. The study noted that exports from these countries to Russia did not decrease and even increased. The report adds, “In 2022, the value of exports of sanctioned goods to the Eurasian Economic Union+ region (EAEU countries Armenia, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as Mongolia and Turkmenistan)…
World ECR | US sanctions Chinese tech companies over criticism
Home > information > U.S. sanctions Chinese tech companies over critical infrastructure cyberattacks The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced on December 10 that the United States had identified Chinese cybersecurity company Sichuan Silent and one of its employees for allegedly breaching thousands of firewalls at critical infrastructure companies in a cyberattack in April 2020. The sanctions target Sichuan Silent Information Technology Company and security researcher Guan Tianfeng for allegedly exploiting previously unknown vulnerabilities to deploy malware to approximately 81,000 firewalls owned by thousands of companies around the world, including 23,000 firewalls in the United States. Acting Treasury Undersecretary Bradley Smith said: “Today’s actions underscore our commitment to uncovering these malicious cyber activities, many of which pose significant risks to our communities and citizens, and holding them accountable. The responsibility of those behind it.” The Justice Department released an indictment against Guan, and the State Department offered a $10 million reward for information about him or Sichuan's silence. The Treasury…
World ECR | China strikes back at US for adding 140 companies to list
China announced new restrictions on exports of dual-use products to the United States in response to Washington adding 140 companies to its Entity List over concerns about advanced semiconductor technology. China reacted after the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced it was adding 140 companies to its Entity List, targeting entities involved in the development of advanced semiconductors and China's military modernization. These changes are consistent with U.S. national security and foreign policy interests under Section 744.11 of the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). "These entities support the development or production of military end-use integrated circuits (ICs)," the Dec. 2 notice states. These include entities from China, Japan, South Korea and Singapore, nine of which received special "Footnote 5" designations that extend U.S. export controls to certain foreign-produced products. The notice said the affected entities are committed to the development of "advanced node integrated circuits," or semiconductor manufacturing tools, and support China's military-civilian fusion ("MCF") strategy.…
World ECR | US and allies explore excluding Russia
Home > information > The United States and its allies explore excluding Russia from the Wassenaar export control regime The United States and its allies are studying how to reorient the Wassenaar Arrangement (“WA”)—the multilateral export control regime—into a “Wassenaar minus one” alliance that excludes Russia. This is due to growing frustration with the effectiveness of the export control system, according to an analysis released on November 25 by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). The Washington, D.C., think tank said discussions began at a U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting in January, where officials discussed "whether to exclude Russia from WA or continue to exclude Russia" following Ukraine's invasion of Ukraine. The current 42-member Wassenaar regime faces serious limitations, including "a slow decision-making process (which requires unanimous consent from all members), a lack of strategic measures (only one plenary session per year) and a mechanism to oust Russia," the report states. , long delays. However, expelling Russia…
World ECR | US sanctions Iran’s “shadow fleet”
Home > information > U.S. sanctions 35 Iranian “shadow fleet” ships and entities The U.S. Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on 35 entities and vessels involved in Iran's "shadow fleet" of oil tankers, saying the tankers "play a critical role in transporting illicit Iranian oil to foreign markets" in violation of U.S. sanctions. Acting Deputy Secretary of State Bradley Smith said Iran continues to use oil trade revenues to develop its nuclear program, proliferate its ballistic missile and drone technology and fund its regional terrorist proxies, which threatens to further undermine the region. Stablize. An announcement was made on December 3rd. The Treasury Department said the action, under Executive Order 13902, imposes sanctions on companies that manage ships "that transport tens of millions of barrels of oil to Iran." Sanctioned entities include United Arab Emirates-based Galileos Marine Services, Panama-based Ocean Glory Giant OGG SA and multiple companies in China, India and other countries. "Iran relies on a vast network of…
World ECR | EU to use frozen Russian funds to fund Ukraine aid
Home > information > EU to use frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine aid, plans 15th sanctions package European Council President Antonio Costa announced during his visit to Kyiv on December 1 that the EU will provide 1.5 billion euros in monthly assistance to Ukraine throughout the year starting in January, with the funds coming from frozen Russian assets. Costa told a joint news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that the money came from proceeds from Russia's frozen assets and could also be used for military purposes. The news comes as preparations are underway for a new round of restrictions on Moscow. We will also increase pressure on the Russian economy and further weaken Russia's ability to wage war. We are preparing the 15th sanctions package against the Putin regime,” Costa said during his first official visit as Security Council president. The visit, attended by High Representative Katja Karas and Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, coincides with the anniversary of…
World ECR | OFAC: German company pays $14.5 million to resolve Iran issue
Home > information > OFAC: German company pays $14.5 million to settle Iran sanctions violations over polypropylene plant plan German industrial equipment company Aiotec GmbH has agreed to pay $14.55 million to settle potential civil liability arising from a conspiracy that caused a U.S. company to sell and supply an Australian polypropylene plant to Iran, according to a December 3 announcement from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control ( "OFAC"). It is alleged that between 2015 and 2019, Aiotec conspired to facilitate the indirect sale and supply of an Australian plant to Iran's Petroleum Downstream Industries Development Company (PIDID) by a US company "and to remit payments for the polypropylene plant through US financial institutions". Notice of execution. The Berlin-based company falsely claimed the $9.7 million plant would be operated in Turkey while arranging for its transfer to Iran. From 2016 to 2017, Aiotec continued to conceal the fact that the plant was exported to PIDID, Iran, and repeatedly…
World ECR | Indian national charged with illegal flight
Home > information > Indian national accused of illegally exporting aviation technology to Russia via India The U.S. Department of Justice announced on November 22 that an Indian businessman was indicted on suspicion of conspiring to export controlled dual-use aviation parts to Russia through India, violating U.S. export controls. Sanjay Kaushik, 57, was arrested in Miami on October 17 and charged with attempting to illegally export navigation and flight control systems from Oregon to Russia and making false statements about the export. The indictment was filed on November 20 in the District of Oregon. Prosecutors allege that as early as March 2023, after Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Kaushik conspired with others to illegally obtain aerospace products and technology from the United States for Russian entities. The goods were allegedly purchased under false pretenses, claiming that his Indian company was the end user. According to court documents, Kaushik and co-conspirators attempted to purchase Attitude Heading Reference Systems ("AHRS"),…
World ECR | Netherlands proposes major reforms to EU
Home > information > Netherlands proposes major overhaul of EU sanctions enforcement system The Netherlands circulated a non-paper (informal discussion paper) proposing greater European cooperation on the implementation and enforcement of sanctions, calling for new EU-wide risk assessments, minimum enforcement standards and enhanced compliance for high-risk businesses rule. The document states that "the effectiveness of EU sanctions depends to a large extent on their effective and consistent implementation and enforcement across the Union" and proposes seven key reforms, including the principle of "implementation by design" for new sanctions and EU-wide risk avoidance assessment. The Dutch proposal on 22 November calls for expanding the European Commission's sanctions information exchange repository to better analyze ownership structures and sanctions evasion patterns, while creating a database of relevant case law and enforcement actions. “One of the challenges is bringing together the right type of data to better understand avoidance patterns,” the report states. “For example, information on frozen assets and self-reporting can be most…
World ECR | Japan and Germany launch economic security
Home > information > Japan, Germany launch economic security dialogue amid technology protection concerns Japan and Germany held their first bilateral economic security consultations in Berlin on November 21 to address common concerns about economic coercion and the protection of critical technologies. The framework, agreed in July 2024 by then Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, brought together the two countries' major economic and security agencies to coordinate responses to emerging economic security challenges. The two sides exchanged views on key issues related to economic security, including strengthening the resilience of supply chains, addressing non-market policies and practices and resulting overcapacity, addressing economic coercion, and protecting and promoting critical and emerging technologies," according to the Japan Economic Joint Statement of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (“METI”). The Japanese delegation is co-chaired by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and participated by the National Security Agency and the Ministry…
World ECR | G7 calls on China to lift export controls
Home > information > G7 calls for lifting Chinese export controls, monitoring North Korea sanctions According to a joint statement issued by the G7 foreign ministers meeting held in Italy on November 26, the foreign ministers of the G7 countries called on China to lift export controls on key minerals and expressed "serious concern" about North Korea's arms transfer to Russia in violation of UN sanctions. "We further call on China not to impose export control measures, particularly on critical minerals, which could cause serious disruptions to supply chains," ministers said. The G7 condemned North Korea's exports of ballistic missiles and ammunition to Russia in "direct violation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions" and announced the creation of a new monitoring mechanism after Russia vetoed a UN sanctions panel earlier this year. “We will take appropriate measures in accordance with our legal regime against Chinese and other third-country actors who provide material support for the Russian war machine, including financial…
World ECR | Austria shifts sanctions oversight to finance
Home > information > Austria transfers sanctions oversight to financial regulator in enforcement reform The Austrian parliament has approved sweeping legislation to transfer sanctions monitoring from the Austrian National Bank ("OeNB") to the Financial Markets Authority ("FMA") and expand supervisory powers, a move that parliamentary letters indicate could help avoid "double-digit... The cost” would be in the range of $1 billion if Austria fails the upcoming FATF review. The November 20 parliamentary document noted that the program is "extremely important for Austria," especially given its "overall economic importance and reputation." The reforms, supported by the ÖVP, SPÖ, NEOS and the Green Party but opposed by the FPÖ, implement FATF recommendations and EU guidelines while extending the regulatory scope to “insurance companies, investment firms and crypto-asset service providers” ". The letter stated that "beginning in 2026, the new regulations will be extended to all EU financial sanctions," including "political sanctions against Russia." The plan provides the legal basis for the Austrian…
World ECR | OFSI Authorizes Limited Processing 2022
Home > information > OFSI authorized to process blocked payments involving Russian financial institutions in 2022 The UK Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has issued a new General License (GL) to allow certain blocked payment transactions involving non-designated third parties and Russian financial institutions from 2022. GL INT/2024/5394840 allows “relevant authorities” to process these payments under certain conditions set out in the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Withdrawal) Regulations 2019. This new license applies to “relevant payments” initiated by non-designated individuals or entities and processed by a Russian designated authority at some point in the transaction chain. In order for a payment to qualify, both the sender and intended recipient must be "non-designated persons," meaning they are not subject to Russian regulations. OFSI said "relevant payments" include funds received and frozen by non-specified institutions in the UK between January 1 and December 31, 2022. The license stipulates several conditions for processing these payments: ● Payments can only be processed by “relevant…
World ECR | European Commission extends Russia sanctions to
Home > information > European Commission expands sanctions on Russia to curb intellectual property rights As part of the EU's 14th Sanctions Programme, the European Commission has updated its Russia Sanctions FAQ to clarify new restrictions on intellectual property rights ("IPR"). The Guidelines, implemented in accordance with Article 5 of Council Regulation No. 833/2014, prohibit the acceptance of intellectual property applications from Russian nationals or entities and directly affect patents, trademarks and other intellectual property rights registered within the EU. The new rules instruct European authorities to "not accept new registration applications" if the applicant is a "Russian legal or natural person or a natural person resident in Russia." IP offices are instructed to identify these applications but suspend further processing, thereby preventing any new rights from taking effect. It is worth noting that Article 5 only affects new registrations and not the renewal of existing intellectual property rights. The European Commission cited Russia's recent actions to undermine EU intellectual…
World ECR | OFAC changes stance on conference sanctions
Home > information > OFAC reverses stance on conference sanctions after free speech challenge The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has decided not to prohibit sanctioned individuals from serving as conference speakers at oversight activities of U.S. citizen organizations, reversing denials of applications for 2022 that do not involve financial transactions or services. . The decision, issued on November 12, comes in response to a lawsuit filed by the Global Foundation for Political Exchange (GPE) challenging OFAC's decision to refuse to allow sanctioned Lebanese politicians to attend its 2022 exchange conference in Beirut. "OFAC does not seek to prohibit the types of conduct described," Acting Director Lisa Palluconi wrote, adding a restriction that organizations may not engage in financial transactions with blocked persons, make payments to They provide goods or services, act on their behalf or provide specialized training. The reversal came after the GPE successfully argued that its conference, which brought together disparate…
World ECR | CFIUS head details the subsequent expansion of enforcement scope
Home > information > CFIUS chief details new rules, expands enforcement scope The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) has levied eight civil penalties over the past two years, four times its previous history - Assistant Secretary for Investment Security Paul Rosen revealed on November 19, a day after announcing an update from the main enforcement agency.The new rules mark the first substantive revisions to CFIUS regulations since 2018, expanding the committee's ability to request information on unreported transactions, setting mitigation response deadlines and increasing maximum penalties for violations.Speaking at the annual meeting of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, Rosen said the improvements stem from lessons learned over the past few years as we focus more on compliance, monitoring and enforcement.He noted that the commission used subpoena powers "for the first time" in 2023 when it conducted more than 40 domestic and international site visits. CFIUS is actively monitoring approximately 240 mitigation agreements…
World ECR | UK trade patterns with Russia point to illicit flows,
The UK ran a trade surplus with the Russian Federation since the end of 2022 for the first time in decades, while investigators uncovered a pattern of sanctions evasion through a complex network, a report published by Transparency International (TI) said on 19 November. Investigators found that British limited partnerships facilitated the import of more than 17,000 shipments to Russia, more than 3,200 of which contained items labeled as "high priority" battlefield components and potential dual-use items. "Russian buyers remain actively using UK ports as departure points for goods, including those from Russian companies that are subsequently subject to sanctions restrictions," the researchers noted. The report documents specific cases, including the shipment of £1.2 million worth of IBM digital processing units from Scotland to the Russian company Vneshekostil, which was sanctioned by the US Treasury six months later. It was also discovered that aircraft parts were shipped to Russia from various locations in the UK via Saudi Arabia, Kyrgyzstan and…
World ECR | Treasury expands sanctions on Iran
Home > information > Treasury expands Iran sanctions to include oil industry According to a decision issued on November 18, the U.S. Treasury Department expanded the scope of sanctions against Iranian industries under Executive Order 13902 to include the Iranian oil and petrochemical industry. The measure, which takes effect on October 11, allows the Office of Financial Assets Control (OFAC) to freeze the property and interests of anyone determined to engage in Iran's oil and petrochemical industry, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in the decision. Yellen explained in the statement that the expanded sanctions are a response to the 2020 executive order targeting Iran’s construction, mining, manufacturing and in addition to existing sanctions on the textile industry. . Looking for expert advice on export controls or sanctions issues? Subscribe now to receive it Regular updates on developments in global trade controls and sanctions Expert advice on preparing your business for changing regulations Learn more about trade control policies Recommendations on…
World ECR | State Department seeks industry input for defense
Home > information > U.S. State Department seeks industry input on defense export control reforms According to a November 18 Federal Register notice, the U.S. Department of State’s Defense Trade Advisory Group will meet on December 4 to discuss reforms to broker reporting requirements and re-export controls. The Defense Trade Advisory Group ("DTAG") will analyze alternatives to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations ("ITAR") broker reports and review policies affecting the joint production and re-export of defense articles. The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) requests DTAG to submit a preliminary analysis for a multi-phase review of ‘production diplomacy’ focusing on barriers, inefficiencies and opportunities in co-production, co-development and sustainment of defense items,” the notice reads . The virtual meeting will also discuss improvements to DDTC’s FAQ guidance and examine “challenges faced by U.S. and non-U.S. industries in obtaining re-export approvals.” Private Sector Advisory Council members appointed by the Assistant Secretary for Political-Military Affairs must register for the meeting by…
World ECR | UK updates sanctioned import licensing system
The UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) announced on November 19 that it had updated its import licensing process and revised its guidance on sanctions programs targeting Iran, Belarus, North Korea and the Central African Republic. As part of the service update, the previous Import Case Management System has been renamed Application for Import License, which includes new email contacts and web links across multiple sanctions regimes. These changes affect the Iran (Sanctions) (Nuclear) (EU Withdrawal) Regulations 2019, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (Sanctions) Regulations 2019, the Republic of Belarus (Sanctions) Regulations 2019 and the Central African Republic (Central Africa) Regulations 2020. Guidance document for the Republic (Sanctions) Regulations. guide? utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-topic&utm_source=a2127456 7584-469d-bf6b-20d8954a2d50&utm_content=IMMEDIATELY guide? utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-topic&utm_source=5113503d d8e7-40ae-9c3f-0b5464462bda&utm_content=IMMEDIATELY guide? utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-topic&utm_source=7c7ded9b e097-4275-85dd-76ec6bf08cf3&utm_content=IMMEDIATELY
World ECR | UK and US deepen cooperation on sanctions
Home > information > UK and US deepen cooperation on sanctions to tackle global threats The UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) and the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said sanctions remain an important tool in countering US and UK national security threats. United Blog, covering their annual technology exchange in Washington, DC. "Financial sanctions work best when applied multilaterally, and we remain committed to designing, communicating and implementing new sanctions in close coordination with each other," the blog added, stressing the importance of cooperation in addressing challenges such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the conflict In the Middle East. The meeting, held in October, marked the second anniversary of the OFSI-OFAC Enhanced Partnership. The exchange focuses on strengthening law enforcement through information sharing and private sector engagement. The newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) formalizes efforts to share data and analysis to enable a coordinated response to sanctions violations. Joint outreach with financial institutions such…
World ECR | BIS updates key export control enforcement guidance
Home > information > BIS updates key export control enforcement guidance based on new case The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced on November 12 that it has released an updated version of its enforcement guidance, "Don't Let This Happen to You!", which covers recent export control violations. The revised publication, last updated in July 2024, includes several important new enforcement cases, including: ● The first punishment case of the Disruptive Technology Strike Force ● Criminal case involving Russian procurement network ● A smuggling case involving the use of export-controlled items to stage assassinations ● Administrative action against a semiconductor company for unauthorized shipments to Entity List parties ● Violation of anti-boycott regulations The BIS advises that “exporters are encouraged to read this publication, which provides useful illustrations of the types of conduct that can put companies and universities in trouble.” The guide is designed to help industry and academia understand export control compliance requirements…
World ECR | U.S. Treasury revises Myanmar sanctions rules
Home > information > U.S. Treasury Department Revises Myanmar Sanctions Regulations and Expands Guidance The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued a final rule amending the Myanmar Sanctions Regulations to expand guidance and incorporate recent directives. OFAC announced in a Nov. 13 notice that the revised regulations replace the abbreviated version issued in June 2021 and provide additional interpretive guidance, definitions and general permissions. It noted that “the sanctions in Executive Order 14014 do not generally prohibit trade or the provision of banking or other financial services to the State of Myanmar.” Rather, they “apply to the extent that the relevant transactions or services involve being blocked or otherwise prohibited under these sanctions.” Property or property interests otherwise expressly prohibited.” Major updates include: ● Incorporated into “Directive No. 1” issued on October 31, 2023, prohibiting the provision of financial services to Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (“MOGE”) ● New general license for humanitarian activities…
World ECR | Ministry of Finance “substantially” expands foreign investment
Home > information > Treasury to 'significantly' expand foreign investment reviews near military sites The U.S. Department of the Treasury, as chairman of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), announced a final rule that “will significantly expand oversight of foreign real estate transactions near more than 60 military installations in 30 states,” marking a significant increase in national security review powers. The rule adds military installations to an existing list of foreign property transactions facing scrutiny and expands CFIUS's jurisdiction to about 10 existing locations. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen announced the changes in a Nov. 1 press release, saying, “The Biden-Harris Administration will continue to leverage our robust investment screening tools to advance America’s national security and protect our military installations from external threats.” The expanded oversight includes the creation of new one-mile screening zones around 40 additional military bases, as well as 100-mile radius reviews around 19 additional installations. The rule also expands CFIUS' jurisdiction…
World ECR | Taiwan says machine tools are exported to Russia
Home > information > Taiwan says machine tool exports to Russia "dropped to zero" after controls Taiwan has stopped exporting machine tools to Russia after expanding export controls, the Ministry of Economic Affairs said, in response to a report that ranked Taiwan among Russia's top five machine tool suppliers. The Ministry of Commerce stated that since March 8 this year, it has taken a number of actions, including implementing export controls on 77 machine tool tax items (HS codes). On November 1, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology stated in a Chinese statement that since the implementation of the above-mentioned expanded control measures, the number of Chinese machine tools exported to Russia has dropped to zero. It added that this proved that its "control measures have achieved initial results". A recent report by the British think tank RUSI found that 6.08% of the 2,113 companies supplying machine tools to Russia in 2023 and the first quarter of 2024 were…
World ECR | Nearly 100 criminal cases have been opened in Latvia
Home > information > Latvia to file nearly 100 criminal cases against Russia for sanctions violations in 2024 A senior official at the Latvian State Tax Service (VID) told public broadcaster LTV that 94 criminal cases had been filed this year for violating sanctions against Russia and Belarus. Raimonds Zukuls, deputy director of the tax office, said the figure brings to more than 300 the total number of criminal cases for sanctions violations since the EU imposed restrictions in February 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine. "The number of cases we are seeing is not decreasing," Zukurs said, noting that more than 2,400 shipments have been intercepted this year, up from 2,170 last year. According to a report by The Baltic Times on October 28, he told the TV station that the products attempted to be exported to Russia and Belarus mainly involved cars, tractors, electrical equipment and appliances, while blocked imports included wood products, animal feed and metal products. "This…
World ECR | OFAC issues new licenses targeting Russia sanctions,
The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued five new general licenses (GLs) that modify restrictions on transactions with Russia, including extending the deadline for energy-related transactions to April 30, 2025. Under General License No. 8K, OFAC authorizes "energy-related transactions" with designated Russian banks, including Sberbank, VTB Bank, Alfa-Bank and several others. The license defines energy-related activities as "the extraction, production, refining, liquefaction, gasification, regasification, conversion, concentration, manufacture, transportation or purchase of petroleum" and other energy products. The agency also provides a grace period for certain newly sanctioned entities. OFAC stated in General License No. 110 that "all transactions generally incidental to and necessary for any transaction involving one or more of the following blocked entities are authorized before 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on December 14, 2024." . Covers several companies, including XH Smart Tech China Co Ltd, Lokesh Machines Limited, Orbit Fintrade LLP and Wuhan Huazhong CNC Co., Ltd. Meanwhile, GL No. 25G authorizes "the…
World ECR | Australia renews legal services license
Home > information > Australia renews license to provide legal services to sanctioned persons According to an October 30 notice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australia has issued a new license allowing legal services providers to work with sanctioned individuals and entities, replacing the previous authorization. The new license SAN-2024-00138 replaces SAN-2022-00079 and is valid for two years from the date of issue or revoked under the Autonomous Sanctions Regulations 2011. The authorization covers seven categories of license holders: “Australian persons, including bodies corporate acting as legal service providers and their employees”; Designated Persons or Entities (“DPE”); “Persons acting on behalf of the DPE”; Postal, Courier and litigation services providers; “the Commonwealth and persons appointed or employed under the Public Service Act 1999”; “the Reserve Bank of Australia and staff”; and “financial institutions and their employees”. Permitted activities include "services directly related to the provision of legal advice or legal representation in Australian courts and tribunals"…
World ECR | US condemns Russia’s military actions with North Korea
Home > information > US condemns Russia's military cooperation with North Korea The U.S. State Department condemned Russia's military cooperation with North Korea, saying the Kremlin's alleged training of North Korean soldiers violated multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions and warned Washington could impose sanctions in due course. U.S. Department of Defense spokesman Matthew Miller made the remarks at a press conference on October 29, emphasizing any form of military cooperation between Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea ("North Korea"), especially ballistic missiles or Cooperation in weapons directly violates international sanctions. He said that we believe that Russia’s training of North Korean soldiers involving weapons or related materials is a direct violation of Security Council Resolutions 1718, 1874 and 2270. Reports of deepening ties between Russia and North Korea have drawn close attention from the international community, particularly Russia's alleged training of North Korean soldiers to fight in Ukraine. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said earlier that…
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World ECR | BIS seeks comment on potential drone supply chain
Home > information > BIS seeks comment on potential drone supply chain security rule The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on January 2 seeking public comment on potential rules to protect the security of the commercial unmanned aerial system (UAS) supply chain), citing "Serious" risks of Chinese and Russian involvement in drone technology. "Securing the unmanned aircraft systems technology supply chain is critical to maintaining our national security. This ANPRM is an important step in protecting the United States from vulnerabilities created by foreign entities," said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo Gina Raimondo said. The notice seeks comment that foreign adversaries’ involvement in the drone information and communications technology services (“ICTS”) supply chain “could enable our adversaries to remotely access and manipulate these devices, thereby exposing sensitive U.S. data.” “The Department of Commerce continues to assess the national security risks posed by foreign adversaries’ participation in our critical…