Firearms
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) defines firearms in the context of export controls. According to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), administered by BIS, a firearm is generally defined as a weapon, including a shotgun or rifle, which is designed to expel one or more projectiles through a barrel by an explosion or other form of combustion. This definition encompasses a wide range of firearms, including semi-automatic and automatic firearms, shotguns, and rifles.
It's important to note that the specific details and criteria for classifying items as firearms can be found in the EAR, particularly within the Commerce Control List (CCL) and associated Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs). These regulations provide a framework for controlling the export, re-export, and transfer of certain items, including firearms and related components, to promote national security and foreign policy objectives.
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Guidance articles
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Effective immediately, the U.S. Department of Commerce (the Department) is pausing for
approximately 90 days the issuance of new export licenses involving certain firearms, related
components, and ammunition under its jurisdiction and the provision of new export assistance activities for such products to all non-governmental end users worldwide, apart from those in certain destinations. The Department may take additional steps to further U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.