International Traffic in Arms Regulations

Key Points

• 1Companies and individuals must get permission from the U.S. government before selling military equipment, weapons, or advanced defense technology to foreign countries
• 2The State Department reviews each request to make sure sales don't go to countries hostile to the U.S. or groups that pose security risks
• 3Violations can result in serious penalties including fines, criminal charges, and loss of the right to conduct future business in defense items
• 4The rules apply to physical weapons as well as technical information and blueprints that could be used to make military equipment
• 5American defense contractors and manufacturers are the primary businesses affected, though some academic institutions and research facilities may also need to comply

Impact Assessment

Key Dates