A Ban on the Export of Eu Goods to Russia

Abstract

This article analyzes the ban on the export of goods from the EU to Russia, with particular emphasis on dual-use goods and export controls. In the current political situation, these controls pose a serious challenge to EU exporters, who have been placed under an additional obligation to reliably verify recipients, intermediaries, and, above all, the type of goods being shipped, in terms of compliance with the regulations governing exports. The catch-all clause is also discussed. On the one hand, this allows a great deal of discretion within the competence of the Member State when deciding whether a given good, its elements, or its ownership rights should be controlled. On the other, the exchange of information on licensing decisions between the licensing and customs authorities of the Member States and the Commission contributes to further harmonization of the practical application of the law by introducing a new dual-use control enforcement coordination mechanism. This is aimed at improving cooperation between law enforcement agencies, and exchanging best practices.