Canada issued limits for exporting newly prohibited firearms, in a May 1 notice to exporters. “The purpose of this Notice is to advise exporters of export controls implications flowing from the announcement by the Prime Minister that a number of firearms are now considered 'prohibited firearms,'” it said. The Canada Border Services Agency also posted a notice that said that several firearms are now illegal to import. “Please be advised that the ... (CBSA) will immediately begin prohibiting the importation of all firearms that are listed in the Regulations by individuals or businesses, unless an exemption is met,” it said.
Brazil recently imposed export restrictions on a range of medical supplies due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to an April 29 report from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. The measures restrict exports of medical and hospital equipment, including surgical masks, latex gloves, nitrile gloves, waterproof aprons, protective goggles, facial protectors, caps, hospital beds, “multiparameter monitors” and mechanical ventilators and circuits, the report said. Brazil also has “special licensing requirements” for exports of goods used to combat the virus, including chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin and fentanyl, the report said.
Canada and India recently announced increased restrictions on certain foreign investments, following a broader trend of countries scrutinizing investments involving critical technologies (see 2003260003, 2003250033 and 2002260042), according to an emailed report from Baker McKenzie on April 23. Canada announced measures to increase scrutiny on investments “of any value” related to “public health or critical goods and services,” Baker McKenzie said, while India said it will now require government approval for all investments from countries that share its borders. Both actions will likely lead to a more “in-depth examination” of transactions, more detailed information requests from both governments and “lengthier review times,” the alert said.