Nuclear Commerce: Additional Actions Needed to Improve DOE's Export Control Process
Abstract
Encouraging U.S. exports of civilian nuclear products, services, and technology while ensuring they are not used for foreign nuclear weapons programs is a fundamental goal of U.S. policy. Exports of U.S. civilian nuclear technology, assistance, and services are regulated by DOE through 10 C.F.R. Part 810. Depending on the importing country and technology, exports can be generally authorized, with no application required, or specifically authorized, in which case the exporter must submit an application to DOE. The Departments of Commerce, Defense, and State, as well as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, also review the applications, which must finally be approved by the Secretary of Energy. GAO was asked to examine the Part 810 process. This report examines (1) Part 810 processing times over the last 6 years compared with DOEs targets; (2) the extent to which Part 810s scope is clear and DOE can reasonably assure consistent interpretation; and (3) the extent to which DOE enforces Part 810. GAO analyzed all 89 specific authorizations granted from 2008-2013 and interviewed key agency officials and U.S. nuclear industry representatives.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2014
- Accession Number
- AD1178748
Entities
People
- Alisa Beyninson
- Antoinette Capaccio
- Cynthia Norris
- David C. Trimble
- Glen Levis
- Grant Mallie
- Jeff Phillips
- Jennifer Young
- John Rastler
- Pamela Davidson
- R. S. Fletcher
- Thomas Merlito
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office