BIS to Pursue Eliminating Dual Use Licenses for Exports to 40-60 Countries
In an October 1, 2009 speech to attendees at the Bureau of Industry and Security's Update Conference on Export Controls, Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke presented an update on the steps the Obama Administration is taking to revitalize U.S. exports, including the reform of the nation's export control system.
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Locke reiterated that the administration is going to put more resources into commercial services, streamline visas for businesspersons coming to the U.S. on commercial buying trips, strengthen intellectual property rights (IPR) to safeguard American innovation, mobilize the Federal government to encourage export promotion (with Commerce as the coordinator), and reform the export control system.
The Secretary also announced new actions to eliminate the edge foreign suppliers have that are solely due to U.S. export control policies.
Goal is "Fundamental Reform" of U.S. Export Control System
Locke emphasized that fundamental reform of the U.S. export control system is a high priority in the Obama Administration, and noted that two weeks ago he was in discussions with Defense Secretary Gates on the issue, and that he met with Secretary of State Clinton on the topic last week. The administration is looking to reform the system to be more expeditious, transparent, and predictable. They want a system focused on controlling high risk exports, with follow-through by other countries with their reexports of these high risk products. The system should also reduce controls where they make no sense.
BIS to Pursue Eliminating Dual Use Licenses for Exports to Close Partners, Allies
Locke also announced that he has directed the Bureau of Industry and Security to take two steps. First, he is asking BIS to pursue eliminating most dual-use1 export license requirements for close partners and allies, some 40-60 countries.
BIS to Develop Fast Track Program for Other Countries, Etc.
Second, Locke has asked BIS to develop a Fast Track program for considering dual-use export licenses for other countries that do not pose a threat.
Locke added that BIS will continue to scour the regulations and delete items and technology controls that are no longer needed.
1dual-use items are designed for civilian use but may have military uses as well.
(See ITT's Online Archives or 07/24/09 news, 09072499 1, for earlier BP summary of the administration's trade agenda priorities for exports.
See ITT's Online Archives or 09/23/09 news, 09092399 3, for BP summary on Locke - Gates meeting.)
Press release on Secretary Locke's remarks to conference attendees (dated 10/01/09) at http://www.commerce.gov/NewsRoom/PressReleases_FactSheets/PROD01_008478
Text of Secretary's remarks (dated 10/01/09) available at http://www.commerce.gov/NewsRoom/SecretarySpeeches/PROD01_008477