On April 16, 2020, OFAC published a Fact Sheet that provides consolidated guidance on the key exemptions, exceptions, and authorizations that are available for humanitarian-related trade, assistance, and activity under OFAC’s Iran, Venezuela, North Korea, Syria, Cuba, and Ukraine/Russia-related sanctions programs. These sanctions programs generally allow for humanitarian-related activities, and OFAC is encouraging those interested in providing assistance to combat the spread and effects of COVID-19 to engage in humanitarian activities using available longstanding exemptions, exceptions, and authorizations. It is important to note that OFAC has not issued any new exemptions, exceptions, or authorizations. Rather, the purpose of the Fact Sheet is to provide guidance on the most relevant existing exemptions, exceptions, and authorizations related to personal protective equipment and other COVID-19-related humanitarian assistance and trade.
For more information on how these could impact your business, contact:
- Martin Lutz, Partner (mlutz@mcginnislaw.com, 512-495-6024),
- Lindsey Roskopf, Attorney (lroskopf@mcginnislaw.com, 713-615-8534), or
- Another member of the McGinnis Lochridge International Trade and Transactions Practice Group