US tightens export controls on chemicals that make bioweapons

The US Commerce Department is adding new chemicals and equipment to its list of items that require special export licenses. This means companies will need government permission to ship these items out of the country, making it harder for them to end up in dangerous hands.

Governments around the world have been trying to stop the spread of materials that can be used to make chemical and biological weapons. This rule closes some gaps, making it harder for bad actors to get their hands on specific ingredients and tools. It also updates controls on existing items, reflecting new ways these materials can be misused.