Frequently Asked Questions

Generally speaking, every business transaction, and every party involved in that transaction, should be screened. This includes the end user, as well as all intermediaries. Organizations should also screen business associates, employees, partners, vendors, resellers, visitors, etc. Countries should also be screened to ensure they are not currently facing sanctions or under embargoes. Put simply, it is best practice to screen everyone, all the time.

Governments around the world control exports for many reasons, including preventing controlled technology or dual-use goods from falling into the wrong hands. Exports are also regulated to advance foreign policy objectives, and to further economic and trade goals.

The first step in most organizations’ export compliance program is typically Denied Party Screening, also known as Restricted Party Screening, among other names. Screening is the process of helping to ensure that organizations do not do business with any party on a government or international watch list.

People and entities on these watch lists face trade restrictions due to reasons ranging from terrorism, criminal activity, and money laundering, among others. Doing business with these entities can lead to criminal and civil penalties, large monetary fines, imprisonment, negative press coverage, a hit to an organization’s reputation, and a revocation of export privileges.

Our Denied Party Screening FAQ page goes into greater depth about denied party screening, and related obligations.