Research@UIC > Grants & Contract Proposals > Export Control

Export Control

Any item, including materials, technology, software and information, sent from the United States to a foreign destination is an export. This includes items sent via mail, courier, facsimile, e-mail or the Internet.

Three federal departments enforce the export control regulations.

The U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security enforces the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which includes the export of dual use items and their technology (e.g., items that have both commercial and military applications, such as computers or pathogens).
The U.S. Department of State enforces the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which includes defense articles and services
The U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) administers and enforces trade sanctions, embargoes and travel restrictions.

A license or other approval must be obtained from the relevant agency prior to the export of any covered equipment, materials, technology, software or information unless an exemption applies. Even if an exemption applies, the item may require prior governmental review, notification or special documentation.

Violations of the export laws may result in civil and criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment for both the institution and the individual.

Export Control

Letter from the Vice Chancellor for Research

Summary of Export Control Regulations

Export Control Checklist