Includes the U.S. government export controls that companies need to abide by when exporting to this country.
Last Published: 7/25/2019

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is responsible for implementing and enforcing the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which regulate the export and re-export of some commercial items, including “production” and “development” technology.  The items that BIS regulates are often referred to as “dual use” since they have both commercial and military applications.  Further information on export controls is available at: https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/all-articles/47-about-bis/newsroom/506-export-basics-publications-2.

BIS has developed a list of "red flags," or warning signs, intended to discover possible violations of the EAR.  These are posted at: www.bis.doc.gov.

Also, BIS has "Know Your Customer" guidance at: https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/documents/pdfs/1320-know-your-customer.

If there is reason to believe a violation is taking place or has occurred, report it to the Department of Commerce by calling the 24-hour hotline at 1(800) 424-2980, or via the confidential lead page at: www.bis.doc.gov.

The EAR does not control all goods, services, and technologies.  Other U.S. government agencies regulate more specialized exports.  For example, the U.S. Department of State has authority over defense articles and services.  A list of other agencies involved in export control can be found on the BIS website at: http://www.bis.doc.gov.

For further details about BIS and its programs, please visit the BIS website at: www.bis.doc.gov.

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.