International Law Advisory - State Revokes Defense Export Licenses to Venezuela

On August 17, 2006, the Department of State, Office of Defense Trade Controls Policy (“DDTC”), issued a notice in the Federal Register announcing the government’s new policy prohibiting the export or transfer of defense articles to Venezuela.  This DDTC notice effectively revokes all International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) licenses and approvals authorizing such transactions.  In effect, Venezuela is deleted from any ITAR-related technical assistance agreements and manufacturing licensing agreements currently in force (including any agreement in which Venezuela is listed as a sales territory).  In addition, exporters may not use any ITAR exemption for export to Venezuela, with the exception of exports of firearms and ammunition for personal use by individuals, where the firearms will be returned to the United States.

We will continue to keep you apprised of this and other developments related to export controls issues.  If you have any questions regarding DDTC’s actions, please contact Ed Krauland at 202.429.8083.