The European Union (EU) is entering a new era of export controls, driven by geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and the imperative to safeguard its economic and national security. This article examines the evolving landscape of the EU and its Member States’ export controls on dual-use items, particularly in advanced technology sectors. The 2021 revision of the EU Dual-Use Regulation marked a notable shift, introducing, among other things, mechanisms for coordinating national control lists, stricter measures on cyber surveillance, and increased expectations for private sector compliance. In response to multilateral stagnation within frameworks such as the Wassenaar Arrangement, Member States have increasingly adopted unilateral measures. However, while there may be compelling reasons to take action, such fragmentation risks undermining the EU’s single market and the cohesion of its trade and economic security policies. Proposals in a 2024 White Paper authored by the European Commission call for a more coordinated approach, including streamlined regulatory mechanisms and greater alignment among Member States. This article takes stock of the current situation and discusses the proposed areas of reform.
Global Trade and Customs Journal