On March 15, 2016, in response to North Korea's ongoing pursuit of nuclear and missile programs, including its recent nuclear test in January and ballistic missile launch in February, President Obama issued a new Executive Order (EO), declaring North Korea's actions to be a threat to the national security of the United States. The new EO tightens existing sanctions against North Korea, which have included an import ban, SDN listings and specific sanctions related to watercraft vessels. With the new EO, U.S. sanctions against North Korea now also include a ban on exports and new investment. In addition, the EO expands the categories of persons subject to designation on the SDN list. The EO follows legislation signed by President Obama last month to strengthen and expand sanctions.

For more information, see the EO and media reporting, as well as the February issue of the Red Notice.

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