Department of Commerce

    The Bureau of Industry and Security (“BIS”) of the U.S. Department of Commerce is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).  The EAR primarily covers the export of “dual-use” commodities, software and technologies.  Dual use items are those that have predominantly commercial uses, but that may also have the potential for military application.  Items subject to the jurisdiction of the BIS are listed in the Commerce Control List (CCL) in the EAR.

    In addition, the BIS is charged with administering and enforcing Antiboycott Laws.  The antiboycott provisions encourage and, in some cases, require U.S. persons to refuse to participate in foreign boycotts that the United States does not sanction.  U.S. persons are also required to report receipt of boycott-related requests.  The BIS also maintains the Denied Persons List and the Entity List, which identify specific persons and entities to which exports are not permitted without the prior approval of BIS. 

    Common examples of items controlled under the EAR are:

    • Chemicals, Microorganisms, and Toxins
    • Computers and GPS equipment
    • Electronics
    • Information Security
    • Radiological Equipment
    • Sensors and Lasers
    • Toxicological Agents and Equipment

    If you have any questions about whether any items you are exporting are subject to the EAR, please contact Eileen Nielsen