New EU sanctions against Russia: New restrictions for gross human rights violations
Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1720 of 13 July 2026 implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1998 concerning restrictive measures in the event of serious human rights violations and abuses was published in the Official Journal of the EU. Under the new rules, the EU blacklist has been expanded to include eight individuals and one entity directly responsible for the systematic torture, inhumane treatment and unlawful killings of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians. For companies from the electronics and ICT sectors, the entry into force of this regulation means an absolute ban on making any economic resources, technologies or systems available to entities and persons included in the updated Annex. Traders and procurement managers must immediately ensure that their international partners are not tied to the sanctioned structures of the Federal Penitentiary Service (FSIN) or the FSB. From the perspective of compliance divisions, this regulation imposes the obligation to immediately update algorithms for the verification of contractors (Sanction Screening) in order to fully manage legal and customs risks. The regulation enters into force on 13 July 2026, is binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.
New overview of EU dual-use export controls: Key restrictions for the high-tech sector
The Official Journal of the EU has published the latest overview of national control lists for dual-use items, based on EU Regulation 2021/821. This document consolidates the stringent export restrictions introduced by individual Member States, including Finland in the area of graphics processing units (GPUs) and AI accelerators, the Netherlands regarding advanced DUV lithography machines, and Spain in the field of quantum computers and optical integrated circuits. For the electronics sector, this new list means that product portfolios must be reviewed immediately, as other Member States may now – on a reciprocal basis – require export licences for goods included in these lists when exported outside the EU customs territory. From the perspective of trade and procurement specialists, these regulations directly affect the lead times for international transactions and require new tariff barriers to be taken into account in dealings with third countries. For compliance departments, this publication, in turn, serves as an essential reference point when updating internal procedures and classifying dual-use technologies within the supply chain.
Sudan – Restrictions
Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1724 of 13 July 2026 amending Regulation (EU) 2023/2147 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan has been published on the EU OJ of 14/07/2026. The new restrictions to import and export regarding new Articles 1a and 1b have been integrated in TARIC with start date of 15/07/2026.