Friday, October 22, 2010

Canada Issues New Guidance on Encryption Controls

(e-Alert – John Boscariol, McCarthy Tétrault)

On October 19, 2010, the Export Controls Division of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (ECD) released new information on its policies regarding the application for and granting of permits for the export or transfer of information security goods, software and technology. Canada imposes controls on transfers of these items to all countries other than the United States.

In response to significant concerns expressed in the Canadian business community regarding the impact of these controls on their competitive position in the international marketplace, ECD has been considering means of facilitating the permit process while still complying with Canada's international commitments in this area. These consultations are further described in our earlier legal alerts: Canadian Government Launches Consultations on Encryption Controls and Canadian Government Undertaking Industry Consultations on Cryptography Export Permit Process.

This week, ECD clarified and announced changes to its policy regarding the issuance of permits for cryptographic goods, software and technology. These new guidelines can be found at Export Permits for Cryptographic Items. Among other things, they specify that exporters must now have a comprehensive compliance plan in place regarding the export and transfer of controlled goods and technology.
Read the summary and link to earlier legal alerts here.