The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is a U.S. government agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce responsible for administering and enforcing export controls, sanctions, and technology transfer regulations.

BIS plays a central role in protecting U.S. national security and foreign policy interests by regulating the export, re-export, and in-country transfer of sensitive goods, software, and technology.

What BIS Means

BIS oversees compliance with key export control frameworks, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations determine whether technologies, data, or software can be shared with foreign entities or individuals.

Organizations handling sensitive technical data must understand BIS requirements to avoid unauthorized disclosures, exports, or access violations.

What BIS Does

BIS is responsible for:

  • Administering U.S. export control regulations
  • Identifying controlled technologies and dual-use items
  • Issuing export licenses and guidance
  • Enforcing compliance through audits, investigations, and penalties
  • Maintaining restricted party lists and entity designations

Its authority extends to both physical exports and digital data access.

Why BIS Matters

BIS regulations apply not only to shipping goods overseas, but also to who can access controlled data, including cloud-hosted files and systems.

Failure to comply can result in:

  • Civil and criminal penalties
  • Loss of export privileges
  • Reputational and contractual damage

Industry Relevance of BIS

As data becomes more distributed, BIS compliance increasingly depends on strong access controls, encryption, and governance.

  • Defense – BIS governs access to controlled technologies and technical data critical to national security.
  • Technology & Manufacturing – Applies to dual-use software, source code, and intellectual property.
  • Finance & Professional Services – Impacts firms supporting export-controlled clients or data environments.

FAQs: Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)

How does BIS differ from ITAR?

Both regulate exports, but BIS generally governs dual-use and commercial technologies, while ITAR applies to defense-specific articles and services. The applicable framework depends on the type of data or technology involved.

Do BIS regulations apply to digital data and cloud environments?

Yes. BIS regulations apply to digital data, software, and technical information, including data stored or accessed in cloud environments. Granting access to controlled data can be considered an export.

Is encryption enough to meet BIS requirements?

Encryption is an important control, but it is not sufficient on its own. BIS compliance also requires managing user access, identity verification, and the ability to prevent unauthorized disclosure or transfer.

How does BIS affect access control and identity management?

BIS compliance often depends on who can access data, not just where it is stored. Organizations must ensure that only authorized individuals can access export-controlled data, using strong access controls and governance.