EU Regulation 2026/759 Amends Iran Sanctions List (OJ L 31.03.2026)
March 31, 2026: The list of products subject to restrictive measures against Iran is updated. New tariff items targeted.
Key Points to Know
On March 31, 2026, Council Regulation (EU) 2026/759 amends Regulation (EU) No 267/2012 concerning restrictive measures against Iran. The updated text revises the list of products subject to restrictions and repeals Regulation No 961/2010. Several tariff items relating to products made from graphite, carbon, and metals have been added or clarified.
Key Highlights
- April 1, 2026: Entry into force of the new regulation and updated product list
- Regulation (EU) 2026/759 OJ L 31.3.2026 amending Regulation (EU) No 267/2012
- Declarants, freight forwarders, and importers must review the dozens of HS codes added or modified in Annex VIIb
Background and Issues
This amendment is part of the EU’s comprehensive review of its measures targeting Iran initiated by the Council. Annex VIIb now specifies the list of products subject to export prohibitions or restrictions, notably graphite (HS codes 2504, 3801), carbon fibers and articles (6815), certain ceramics (6903 10), and numerous metal semi-finished products (7201 to 7207, etc.). The regulation aims to strengthen control over sensitive product flows relevant to strategic concerns. Key regulatory references: consolidated Regulation (EU) No 267/2012, Decision 2010/413/CFSP, Regulation (EC) No 428/2009, and Regulation (EU) 2021/821 on dual-use goods.
Impact on the Profession
Customs declarants must ensure their goods’ HS codes match those on the new Annex VIIb. Importers/exporters dealing with the specified materials (graphite, scrap metal, ferroalloys, semi-finished metals) will need to obtain specific authorizations or reconsider their supply chain models. Freight forwarders should anticipate increased controls and be able to substantiate the precise tariff classification. Compliance officers will need to update internal compliance databases and monitor Iranian regulatory changes closely.
Next Steps
- April 1, 2026: Immediate effect of Regulation (EU) 2026/759
- Detailed analysis of targeted HS nomenclature, preparation for proactive monitoring of developments in Annex VIIb
- Regulatory updates must be shared with import-export teams, with recommended targeted training
The profession must implement the new list of products subject to restrictive measures targeting Iran as of April 1, 2026.
Source: Regulation (EU) 2026/759, OJ L 31.3.2026, EUR-Lex
Sources cited
- EUR-Lex JO Législation - EUR-Lex JO Législation