New EU Helpdesk supports Members with sanctions compliance
The European Commission has unveiled a new support service designed specifically to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), such as the Club’s Members, navigate the increasingly complex world of international sanctions compliance.
The EU Sanctions Helpdesk acts as a central resource offering free, tailored guidance to assist with due diligence related to EU and UN sanctions. With over 40 sanctions regimes currently under EU restrictions, this initiative aims to alleviate the burden on smaller businesses that often lack extensive compliance infrastructure.
The Helpdesk provides:
1. Personalised compliance advice for SMEs involved in international trade.
2. A dedicated online platform containing:
- Sanctions updates.
- Country-specific compliance advice.
- Practical tools, success stories, and compliance best practices.
- Access to training and informative events.
To maximise its impact, the Helpdesk partners with government agencies and regulators; financial institutions and business associations; as well as sanctions and compliance organisations at both national and international levels. Via such collaboration it will host educational activities, participate in events, and help raise sanctions awareness amongst those with European interests.
For Members, the uncertainty around legal and/or sanctions risks can discourage legitimate trade. The Helpdesk aims to address this by reducing unnecessary over-compliance; building trust with financial and business partners; whilst alleviating to some extent the costs tied to sanctions due diligence.
The Helpdesk can be accessed via its official web portal, which can also be used to submit questions, download information and register for events: