# Avoidance trade via third countries

*Last updated: 2026-06-18*

> When a direct export to the intended destination is barred by trade sanctions or embargoes, some shippers route goods through a third country not subject to those restrictions, then forward them onward.

When a direct export to the intended destination is barred by trade sanctions or embargoes, some shippers route goods through a third country not subject to those restrictions, then forward them onward. This practice – known as sanctions circumvention or trade diversion via third countries – deliberately exploits gaps between bilateral restriction regimes. Customs and sanctions authorities scrutinize origin declarations, end-use certificates, and transshipment patterns to detect such schemes. For freight forwarders, carriers, and exporters involved, even inadvertent participation can trigger severe penalties, export licence revocations, or criminal proceedings. Compliance programmes must therefore include robust due-diligence checks on consignees, routing, and ultimate end-users.

**Source:** [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348274589](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348274589)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Avoidance trade via third countries |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 103 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-18 |
| Source | https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348274589 |

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