Import and Export Control

If you will be conducting research abroad, you need to consider export control issues that will likely impact your research and travel. Examples of activities impacted by export control regulations include:

  • Direct export of a controlled item;
  • Access and/or use of a controlled item by a foreign national;
  • Travel to a restricted country;
  • International and domestic collaborations;
  • Conversations involving controlled technology; and
  • Taking or shipping a controlled item out of the U.S., such as a laptop.

CSULB research activities may be subject to the governmental economic sanctions against certain countries, entities and individuals. A flow chart (PDF) is provided that will aid in determining your need for Export Control compliance.

For further information view the CSULB guidelines on import/export control (PDF), guidance on traveling out of the country with a laptop (PDF) and information on the sanctions administered by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Asset Controls (OFAC). The California State University Export Control Manual (PDF) is also an excellent resource to answer many of your export control questions.

If any of these examples or similar activities apply to you, please contact Research Compliance in the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs so that we may assist you in determining the necessary steps to comply with federal regulations.

The U.S. government maintains two primary sets of export control regulations that may impact research conducted at CSULB. The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) regulate exports of commercial items with potential military applications. These are also referred to as dual-use items. The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) regulate exports of items and services specifically designed for military applications.

CSULB Principal Investigators engaged in projects impacted by export control regulations will be required to complete the CITI Export Control module offered by Office of Research & Economic Development.  This module addresses applicable research activities subject to U.S. legal-regulatory controls. By completing this course, PIs will be made aware of the importance of compliance with federal requirements, as non-compliance can result in fines and potential criminal actions.

  • View information on EAR (including specific items subject to the export control restrictions identified on the Commerce Control List (CCL)) from the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security.  Information/training regarding Export Compliance Program (ECP) can be found by checking US BIS website. 
  • View information on ITAR.