Trade Show Exhibitions Could Lead to Export Violations Without Proper Compliance, Law Firm Says

Companies should be mindful of complying with U.S. export controls when exhibiting products at air or trade shows, which could lead to export violations due to increased inspections from U.S. Customs officials, according to a Jan. 8 post from Wilmarth & Associates. Companies should ensure that military and defense-related products or parts are not taken with company employees to the shows without first receiving a license from the State or Commerce department, the post said. Companies must also review technical data or technology that may be provided to foreign people or companies during the trade shows to ensure it does not require a license. U.S. Customs inspectors and agents “have an increased awareness” of trade shows held for the aerospace and defense industry, the post said, and “there is an increased scrutiny of export documents and interviewing of returning travelers.”