International Trade

Sanctions and Export Controls

Sanctions and export controls have evolved from niche regulatory issues into critical business and risk management considerations for companies across a wide range of industries. Geopolitical tensions, increased defence spending, and heightened compliance expectations have resulted in more businesses being exposed to regulatory regimes that historically primarily affected the defence and technology sectors.

We advise clients on:

• EU, US, UK, and other international sanctions regimes
• Export controls relating to products, software, technology, and technical data
• Product, software, and technology classification
• Export licensing and derogation applications
• Internal investigations and regulatory reviews
• Risk assessments and due diligence
• Compliance programmes, policies, and internal control frameworks
• Training and ongoing compliance support
• Engagement with regulatory authorities, including the Swedish Inspectorate of Strategic Products (ISP), the National Board of Trade Sweden, and Swedish Customs

We also assist companies in establishing and enhancing governance structures and compliance functions that meet increasing regulatory expectations and enforcement standards.

Customs and Free Trade Agreements

Customs matters have become increasingly important as a result of new trade barriers, shifting trade policy priorities, and expanding regulatory requirements. A well-designed customs strategy can reduce costs, strengthen supply chains, and create competitive advantages.

We advise clients on:

• Customs classification
• Customs valuation and rules of origin
• Free trade agreements and preferential origin
• Customs optimisation and supply chain structuring
• Customs audits and regulatory investigations
• Customs authorisations and AEO matters
• Customs disputes and litigation

We also represent clients in matters involving anti-dumping measures, countervailing duties, and other trade remedy proceedings.

International Trade at the Intersection of Law, Business, and Geopolitics

International trade is no longer solely a compliance issue. Businesses increasingly need to understand how geopolitical developments, trade restrictions, and national security interests affect business strategy, supply chains, technology transfers, and access to international markets.

We represent clients in regulatory proceedings, investigations, disputes, and litigation across the full spectrum of international trade matters. Our work ranges from strategic advisory and risk management to regulatory engagement and proceedings involving sanctions, export controls, customs, free trade, and trade remedies. We also assist companies in addressing cross-border regulatory challenges where legal regimes overlap or, in some cases, conflict.

As one of the world’s largest global law firms, DLA Piper offers a unique combination of local market knowledge and international reach. Through our specialists across Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and Asia, we help clients navigate regulatory frameworks that are often complex, rapidly evolving, and increasingly influenced by geopolitical developments and national security considerations.