About this site

This site provides analysis and commentary on export controls, sanctions, and research security, with a particular focus on how these tools are being used in an era of strategic competition and rapid technological change.

Export controls are no longer a niche regulatory issue. They now shape decisions on technology development, trade, investment, and international cooperation. Governments are using export controls to pursue national security and foreign policy objectives, while companies, research institutions, and other organizations are increasingly expected to implement and interpret complex and evolving regulatory frameworks.

The purpose of this site is to support clear understanding and informed decision-making in this environment.

Rather than offering news aggregation or legal advice, the site focuses on:

• identifying developments that matter in practice
• explaining how export control policy is evolving across jurisdictions
• examining the interaction between export controls, sanctions, and emerging technologies
• situating regulatory change within its broader security and geopolitical context

The site hosts the Export Controls State of Play series, a quarterly briefing that provides structured analysis of key export control developments, as well as related articles, presentations, and recorded briefings.

Content on this site is intended for export compliance professionals, government officials, security and risk practitioners, and researchers working on international security and technology policy. It is designed to complement, not replace, legal counsel or formal regulatory guidance.

This site is maintained by Dr Ian J Stewart and reflects ongoing research and professional engagement in the field of export controls and international security.