What Is the Commerce Country Chart?
The Commerce Country Chart (Supplement No. 1 to Part 738 of the EAR) is the primary tool for determining whether an export license is required for a specific ECCN-destination combination. It cross-references the Reasons for Control assigned to each ECCN against the control policies applicable to each destination country. Understanding how to read and use this chart is fundamental to export compliance.
The chart lists every country alphabetically and uses columns for different Reasons for Control: CB (Chemical & Biological Weapons), NP (Nuclear Nonproliferation), NS (National Security), MT (Missile Technology), RS (Regional Stability), CC (Crime Control), AT (Anti-Terrorism), FC (Firearms Convention), SI (Significant Items), SL (Short Supply), and UN (United Nations Sanctions).
How to Use the Chart
Step 1: Identify your item's ECCN on the CCL. Step 2: Look at the Reasons for Control listed in the ECCN entry's License Requirements section. Step 3: Find your destination country on the Commerce Country Chart. Step 4: Check whether an "X" appears at the intersection of your destination country's row and any of the Reasons for Control columns applicable to your ECCN. If an "X" appears in any applicable column, a license is required (unless a license exception applies).
Reasons for Control Explained
National Security (NS) is the most common Reason for Control, applying to items with significant military or intelligence applications. Nuclear Nonproliferation (NP) controls items that could contribute to nuclear weapons development. Missile Technology (MT) controls items relevant to missile delivery systems. Anti-Terrorism (AT) is applied broadly — virtually all countries except Canada and close allies have an AT control, making AT the most widespread reason for control.
Beyond the Chart: Additional Controls
Even if the Commerce Country Chart shows no license requirement for your ECCN-destination combination, additional controls may still apply. End-use and end-user controls under Part 744 can require a license regardless of what the chart shows. Embargo regulations in Part 746 impose comprehensive controls on certain countries. Always check these additional provisions as the final step in your license determination process.