US Halts Most Civilian Firearms Exports for 90 Days Over National Security Concerns

Export restrictions affect major gun manufacturers like Smith & Wesson and Sturm Ruger & Co., but leave out around 40 countries with separate agreements, such as Israel and Ukraine.

The US Department of Commerce has halted the export of most civilian firearms for the next 90 days due to national security concerns. The department will assess the risk of firearms being diverted to entities that promote regional instability, violate human rights, or fuel criminal activities.
The halt applies to most civilian firearms and ammunition available in a typical U.S. gun store, including semi-automatic and non-automatic firearms, shotguns and ammunition. This move is seen as unprecedented, as the Commerce Department has never taken such a sweeping action before.
Despite the halt, around 40 countries including Israel and Ukraine that have separate export agreements for firearms are excluded. In addition, close allies like Canada and the UK won't be subject to the halt.
Exports to some of the biggest markets for American gun manufacturers, such as Brazil and Guatemala, will be temporarily suspended. U.S. firearms companies including Sturm Ruger & Co., Vista Outdoor and Smith & Wesson Brands could be affected.
Export licenses can continue to be submitted during the pause, but all civilian license applications will be held without action until the pause is lifted. The pause does not affect previously issued export licenses. For shipments to government clients, exporters must name specific end users.