Export Controls & Sanctions
International Traffic in Arms Regulations
Also known as: ITAR
The International Traffic in Arms Regulations control the export of defense articles, defense services, and related technical data that appear on the United States Munitions List, covering military and space-related items and the know-how to make them. Administered by the State Department, ITAR is generally stricter than the commercial export rules: it requires registration, licensing, and careful handling of technical data, and its reach extends to foreign nationals who access controlled information even inside the country. Companies that design, manufacture, or broker defense-related goods must build rigorous compliance programs, because ITAR penalties are among the harshest in trade law.
ITAR is stricter than the EAR in every dimension and catches parts and technical data that feel entirely commercial. If anything you handle appears on the Munitions List, the registration and licensing obligations are not optional and the penalties are criminal. This is a licensed-counsel question rather than a broker question.
Where it matters for compliance
- Manufacturers, exporters and brokers of defense articles must register with DDTC.
- Technical data and defense services are controlled, not only physical articles.
Related terms
Reviewed by a licensed customs broker. Definitions are general information, not legal or customs advice for a particular shipment. Duty rates, tariff programs and agency requirements change frequently.