Effective January 14, 2021, the Bureau of Industry and Security ("BIS") announced amendments to Export Administration Regulations ("EAR") to implement the rescission of Sudan as a State Sponsor of Terrorism. The U.S. Department of State removed Sudan's designation effective December 14, 2020.
The changes to the EAR remove export control licensing requirements for many exports and reexports of less sensitive items to Sudan. In particular, goods, software, and technology controlled solely for anti-terrorism (AT) purposes no longer require an export license or the use of a license exception to be shipped to Sudan. In addition, the de minimis level for Sudan increased from 10 to 25 percent, which means that fewer items manufactured outside the United States that incorporate U.S.-origin content will be subject to U.S. export control restrictions. The amendment also makes Sudan eligible for additional license exceptions.
The EAR amendments are a significant step towards removing prior terrorism-related restrictions on Sudan. Other agencies, including U.S. Department of the Treasury, are also expected to make conforming amendments to their regulations.
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