U.S. Export Regulations and Governing Agencies

UMB policy on U.S. export controls and sanctions ensures compliance with federal laws that regulate the export of technology, equipment, and services. Several agencies administer these regulations depending on the type of item, technology, or country involved.

Export Administration Regulations (EAR)

  • Control items with both commercial and potential military applications, such as computers, lasers, and pathogens
  • Administer  lists of individuals or organizations that are denied, debarred, or require a license for export transactions

Bureau of Industry and Security

International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR)

  • Control military items and defense services, including firearms, military equipment, toxicological agents, biological agents, and associated materials and equipment

Directorate of Defense Trade Controls

OFAC Sanction Programs

  • Enforces economic and trade sanctions imposed on specific countries or regions for reasons of foreign policy, national security, or international agreements
  • Maintains lists of individuals and organizations considered threats to U.S. national security or economic interests

Office of Foreign Assets Control

Fundamental Research Guidance

National Security Decision Directive 189 – outlines protections for fundamental research

Department of Defense memorandum – reinforces fundamental research exclusions

Key Regulatory References (Code of Federal Regulations)

Link to Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) for access to:

  • Nuclear Regulatory Commission: 10 CFR §110
  • Export Administration Regulations (EAR): 15 CFR §§734–774
  • International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR): 22 CFR §§120–130
  • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms: 27 CFR §444–555
  • Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC): 31 CFR §§500–599
  • Office of Patents and Trademarks (PTO): 37 CFR §5