What are export controls?

Export controls refer to regulations implemented by governments to monitor and restrict the export of certain goods, technologies, and services that may have implications for national security, foreign policy, or international agreements. The primary purpose of these controls is to prevent potentially threatening items, such as military equipment or sensitive technology, from being exported to countries or entities that could misuse them or pose risks to national or global security.

These regulations are critical for safeguarding national interests, ensuring that sensitive technology and other critical resources do not become available to adversaries or inappropriately used in ways that could lead to conflicts or destabilization. By imposing stringent guidelines on what can be exported and to whom, governments can better manage their security and foreign policy objectives.