GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 12, 2026

arms embargo

An arms embargo is an official government or international measure that prohibits or strictly regulates the export, import and transport of weapons, ammunition and war-related equipment.

Last updated: 12 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://eeas.europa.eu/topics/arms-embargoes_en

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An arms embargo is an official government or international measure that prohibits or strictly regulates the export, import and transport of weapons, ammunition and war-related equipment. Arms embargos are often imposed through UN resolutions or regional sanction regimes (such as EU measures) to curtail conflicts, deny resources to human rights abusers or influence strategic balance. In logistics practice, an arms embargo means that shipments of such goods cannot be transported – regardless of whether they are declared directly as weapons or disguised as dual-use civilian goods. Freight forwarders and customs authorities therefore conduct strict checks on prohibited end-uses and end-users. Violations of arms embargos are criminal offences and can result in cargo seizure, corporate fines and imprisonment.

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arms embargo

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