what are export controls

Export controls are regulations imposed by governments to manage and restrict the export of goods, technologies, software, and services across national borders. These controls aim to protect national security, promote foreign policy objectives, and safeguard economic interests by preventing sensitive items from being used for harmful purposes such as military applications, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, or violations of human rights. Export controls often require exporters to obtain licenses for the transfer of controlled items, which are classified based on their sensitivity, destination, end-use, and end-user. These regulations also involve restrictions on trade with embargoed or sanctioned countries, entities, and persons to ensure compliance with national and international security and policy goals.