BIS Outlines Stronger Myanmar Export Controls, Licensing Policy
The Bureau of Industry and Security have outlined a series of increased restrictions on exports to Myanmar, including a more strict licensing policy and the suspension of certain license exceptions. The changes, described by the Commerce Department last week and effective Feb. 18, came after President Joe Biden authorized sanctions and ordered stronger export controls for shipments to the country’s military after it overthrew the government earlier this month (see 2102110020).
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In a notice, BIS reiterated that it will impose a review policy of presumption of denial for all items that require a license under the Export Administration Regulations and that are destined to Myanmar’s Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Home Affairs, armed forces and security services. Those goods were previously subject to a case-by-case review policy. The agency also said it will suspend certain license exceptions previously available for Myanmar due to its placement in Country Group B, including license exceptions Shipments of Limited Value, Shipments to Group B Countries, Technology and Software Under Restriction and Computers. All license exceptions being used for shipments to Myanmar “are subject to revision, suspension, or revocation, in whole or in part, without notice,” BIS added.