GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Export Control Act

Unlike customs law, which classifies goods by tariff position and commercial value, an Export Control Act governs exports according to their potential risk to national or international security.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32021R0821

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Definition & Explanation

Unlike customs law, which classifies goods by tariff position and commercial value, an Export Control Act governs exports according to their potential risk to national or international security. It defines which goods, technologies, and services require an export license, which end-users and end-uses are prohibited, and what penalties apply for violations. In the EU, the Dual-Use Regulation provides the primary legal framework; in the United States, the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) serve equivalent purposes. Exporters, freight forwarders, and customs brokers are directly affected: they must conduct end-user checks, screen against sanctions lists, and track regulatory updates that can change shipment eligibility without notice. Non-compliance can result in substantial fines or criminal prosecution.