On April 19, 2017, a US Department of Commerce (DOC) Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) rule implementing new documentation requirements for certain US exports or reexports to and from Hong Kong will take effect. The DOC published the final rule on January 19, 2017. The new rule emphasizes Hong Kong import and export licensing requirements that affect a variety of goods. It obligates companies using a DOC license or license exception pursuant to the US Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to obtain a Hong Kong import license or a written statement that a Hong Kong license is not required when specific items are exported or reexported to Hong Kong. This rule imposes a similar requirement for reexports from Hong Kong. For more information on the rule and how to comply, please see our advisory.
