US adds 80 foreign entities to export blacklist over national security concerns

By Tuba Ongun

The US Commerce Department announced on Wednesday that it has taken significant steps to protect national security by adding 80 foreign entities to an export restrictions list.

The move, spearheaded by the Bureau of Industry and Security, targeted organizations from China, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Iran, Taiwan, and other nations.

These entities were identified as engaging in activities that conflict with US national security interests and foreign policy.

Key goals of this action include limiting China’s ability to develop advanced computing technologies and quantum capabilities for military use, hindering the progress of its hypersonic weapons program, and restricting training provided to Chinese military forces by entities linked to the Test Flying Academy of South Africa.

Additionally, the measures aim to disrupt Iran’s procurement of drones/unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and related defense equipment, while also addressing unsafeguarded nuclear and missile-related activities.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick underlined the administration's dedication to protecting American interests.

"We will not allow adversaries to exploit American technology to bolster their own militaries and threaten American lives," he said.

He reaffirmed the Commerce Department’s commitment to keeping advanced US technologies out of the hands of those who seek to harm Americans, while simultaneously fostering domestic innovation.

Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security Jeffrey Kessler echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of safeguarding American technology from misuse.

"American technology should never be used against the American people," Kessler said.

He described the list as a critical tool in preventing adversaries from leveraging US goods and technology for activities that pose security threats.