At ASNT, our unwavering commitment is to abide by all relevant legal sanctions and restrictions when providing goods and services to individuals residing in embargoed† or sanctioned‡ countries. This commitment extends not only to individuals in these regions but also to United States citizens living abroad and those who are "ordinarily resident in"§ these areas.
Understanding OFAC's Regulatory Role
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), a branch of the Department of Treasury, is responsible for regulating and restricting transactions involving embargoed or sanctioned countries. This includes ASNT's services¥ and programs, academic collaborations, as well as the exchange of research materials and equipment. The most stringent controls are in place for Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Crimea (Ukraine), Russia, and Syria. Therefore, in most cases, ASNT cannot provide goods or services to residents in these countries without obtaining authorization from OFAC.
Navigating the Complex Landscape
It's important to note that, in most cases, ASNT is unable to provide goods or services to residents in these highly restricted countries without first obtaining authorization from OFAC. These countries are listed on OFAC’s Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List. This authorization process is designed to ensure that ASNT operates in full compliance with not only United States legal sanctions but also international restrictions, including the United Nations' arms embargo and trade restrictions.
Staying Informed about Trade Embargo Regulations
For a deeper understanding of OFAC's sanctions program, we encourage you to explore their website. There, you'll find a wealth of resources, including brochures, advisories, and frequently asked questions. Staying informed about these regulations is crucial for both ASNT and its stakeholders.
Your Questions Are Welcome
If you have any questions or concerns regarding ASNT's sanctions related to embargoed countries, we're here to help. Our dedicated Customer Support team is available to assist you. You can reach us at 1-614-274-6003, 1-800-222-2768, or via email at customersupport@asnt.org.
ASNT is committed to maintaining the highest standards of compliance, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us navigate this complex landscape of sanctions and restrictions.
§Defining "Ordinarily Resident In." Under U.S. law, "Ordinarily Resident In" typically encompasses:
Individuals, regardless of nationality, residing in an embargoed country.
Individuals holding a passport from an embargoed country and a non-permanent visa (e.g., student, visitor, temporary, business) for any country outside the U.S.
Individuals holding a passport from an embargoed country and a non-permanent visa (e.g., visitor, temporary, business) for the U.S.
¥Understanding "Services." The term "Services" is broadly interpreted and includes providing anything of value, even when no money is exchanged. Examples encompass:
Offering technical assistance to any national or institution in Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Crimea (Ukraine), Russia, and Syria.
Sharing unpublished data or research results with individuals or institutions in Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Crimea (Ukraine), Russia, and Syria.
Engaging in teaching or lecturing as a guest of an institution in Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Crimea (Ukraine), Russia, and Syria.
Conducting surveys and interviews within Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Crimea (Ukraine), Russia, and Syria.
†Defining "Embargoed." The term "embargoed" refers to a state of restriction or prohibition imposed by a government on specific goods, services, or trade activities, typically as a punitive measure or for reasons of national security.
‡Defining "Sanctioned." The term "sanctioned" refers to the official authorization, approval, or imposition of a penalty, typically by a government or authoritative body, in response to specific actions or behaviors, and may involve restrictions, penalties, or punitive measures.
