BIS Finalizes License Exception for Medical Devices to Russia

The Bureau of Industry and Security released a final rule April 25 creating a new license exception to authorize certain exports of medical devices to Russia, Belarus and “the temporarily occupied areas of Ukraine.”

New License Exception MED is “consistent with the longstanding practice of authorizing transfers of life-saving medical devices to civilian populaces,” BIS said.

“This license exception only authorizes transfers of medical devices that are regularly approved through the licensing process,” Assistant Secretary for Export Administration Thea Kendler said. “BIS’s action ensures that we remain laser-focused on degrading Russia’s military capabilities, without causing undue harm to civilians.”

The exception applies to EAR99-designated “medical devices” and related “parts,” “components,” “accessories” and “attachments” that are exclusively for use in or with the EAR99 medical devices, BIS said.

A Commerce Department official said last month that BIS was working on the exception (see 2403280036). The final rule takes effect April 29.