BIS increases restrictions towards Cuba

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announces that it will further restrict exports and reexports of items to Cuba. Effective 21 October 2019, BIS adopts a general policy of denial for all applications to lease aircraft, subject to BIS jurisdiction, to Cuban state-owned airlines, and revokes existing licenses. Additionally, BIS amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to establish a general 10-percent de minimis level for Cuba, meaning that items exported or reexported to Cuba must contain less than 10% of controlled U.S.-origin commodities. Lastly, BIS revises the License Exception Support for the Cuban People (SCP), restricting donations and promotional items that may benefit the Cuban government. For more information see the Federal Register ruling.