The U.S. Department of Commerce announced a 90-day suspension on most civilian firearm and ammunition exports for national security reasons. This decision aims to prevent the risk of firearms contributing to regional instability, human rights violations, or criminal activities. The move also includes shotguns and optics.
While the department didn’t go into specific details, it stated that the review will take a look at the “risk of firearms being diverted to entities or activities that promote regional instability, violate human rights, or fuel criminal activities”.
The ban excludes around 40 countries, including Israel and Ukraine, due to separate firearm export agreements. Government clients globally must specify the final recipients of firearms.
During this period, the department will not process any civilian license applications. Major U.S. firearm manufacturers like Sturm Ruger & Co., Vista Outdoor, and Smith & Wesson Brands may be impacted by this halt.
