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###### Department of the Treasury

###### Office of Foreign Assets Control

          - 31 CFR Part 525

# AGENCY:

Office of Foreign Assets Control, Treasury.

# ACTION:

Final rule.

# SUMMARY:

The Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is adopting a final rule amending the Burma Sanctions Regulations to further implement a February 10, 2021, Burma-related Executive Order. This rule replaces the Burma Sanctions Regulations that were published in abbreviated form on June 1, 2021 with a more comprehensive set of regulations that includes additional interpretive guidance and definitions, general licenses, and other regulatory provisions that will provide further guidance to the public. In addition, this amendment incorporates one directive regarding sectoral sanctions issued pursuant to the Burma-related Executive Order of February 10, 2021.

# DATES:

This rule is effective November 13, 2024.

# FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

OFAC: Assistant Director for Licensing, 202-622-2480; Assistant Director for Regulatory Affairs, 202-622-4855; or Assistant Director for Compliance, 202-622-2490.

# SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

## Electronic Availability

                    This document and additional information concerning OFAC are available on OFAC's website:                     *https://ofac.treasury.gov.*

## Background

On June 1, 2021, OFAC issued the Burma Sanctions Regulations, 31 CFR part 525 (86 FR 29197, June 1, 2021) (the “Regulations”), to implement Executive Order (E.O.) 14014 of February 10, 2021, “Blocking Property With Respect to the Situation in Burma” (86 FR 9429, February 12, 2021), pursuant to authorities delegated to the Secretary of the Treasury in E.O. 14014. The Regulations were initially issued in abbreviated form for the purpose of providing immediate guidance to the public. OFAC is revising the Regulations to further implement E.O. 14014. OFAC is amending and reissuing the Regulations as a more comprehensive set of regulations that includes additional interpretive guidance and definitions, general licenses, and other regulatory provisions that will provide further guidance to the public. Due to the number of regulatory sections being updated or added, OFAC is reissuing the Regulations in their entirety.

### E.O. 14014

                    On February 10, 2021, the President, invoking the authority of,                     *inter alia,*                     the International Emergency Economic                           ( print page 89482)                        Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701*et seq.*) (IEEPA), issued E.O. 14014. In E.O. 14014, the President found that the situation in and in relation to Burma, and in particular the February 1, 2021 coup, in which the military overthrew the democratically elected civilian government of Burma and unjustly arrested and detained government leaders, politicians, human rights defenders, journalists, and religious leaders, thereby rejecting the will of the people of Burma as expressed in elections held in November 2020 and undermining the country's democratic transition and rule of law, constituted an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States, and declared a national emergency to deal with that threat.                

Section 1 of E.O. 14014 blocks, with certain exceptions, all property and interests in property that are in the United States, that come within the United States, or that are or come within the possession or control of any U.S. person of: any person determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State: (i) to operate in the defense sector of the Burmese economy or any other sector of the Burmese economy as may be determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State; (ii) to be responsible for or complicit in, or to have directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in, any of the following: (A) actions or policies that undermine democratic processes or institutions in Burma; (B) actions or policies that threaten the peace, security, or stability of Burma; (C) actions or policies that prohibit, limit, or penalize the exercise of freedom of expression or assembly by people in Burma, or that limit access to print, online, or broadcast media in Burma; or (D) the arbitrary detention or torture of any person in Burma or other serious human rights abuse in Burma; (iii) to be or have been a leader or official of: (A) the military or security forces of Burma, or any successor entity to any of the foregoing; (B) the Government of Burma on or after February 2, 2021; (C) an entity that has, or whose members have, engaged in any activity described in section (1)(a)(ii) of E.O. 14014 relating to the leader's or official's tenure; or (D) an entity whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14014 as a result of activities related to the leader's or official's tenure; (iv) to be a political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality of the Government of Burma; (v) to be a spouse or adult child of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14014; (vi) to have materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14014; or (vii) to be owned or controlled by, or to have acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, the military or security forces of Burma or any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14014. The blocked property and interests in property of the persons described above may not be transferred, paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise dealt in.

Section 2 of E.O. 14014 provides that the prohibition on any transaction or dealing in blocked property or interests in property includes the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14014, and the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.

Section 4 of E.O. 14014 prohibits any transaction that evades or avoids, has the purpose of evading or avoiding, causes a violation of, or attempts to violate any of the prohibitions set forth in E.O. 14014, as well as any conspiracy formed to violate such prohibitions.

In section 5 of E.O. 14014, the President determined that the making of donations of the types of articles specified in section 203(b)(2) of IEEPA (50 U.S.C. 1702(b)(2)), by, to, or for the benefit of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14014 would seriously impair the President's ability to deal with the national emergency declared in E.O. 14014. The President therefore prohibited the donation of such items except to the extent provided by statutes, or in regulations, rulings, instructions, orders, directives, or licenses that may be issued pursuant to E.O. 14014.

Section 8 of E.O. 14014 authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to take such actions, including the promulgation of rules and regulations, and to employ all powers granted to the President by IEEPA as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of E.O. 14014. Section 8 of E.O. 14014 also provides that the Secretary of the Treasury may redelegate any of these functions within the Department of the Treasury.

### Directive 1 Under E.O. 14014

On October 31, 2023, OFAC issued “Directive 1 Under E.O. 14014” (89 FR 27668, April 18, 2024) (“Directive 1”) following the Director of OFAC's determination, in consultation with the Department of State, that sections 1(a)(iv), 1(b), and 8 of E.O. 14014 apply to Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) as a political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality of the Government of Burma. Directive 1 prohibits the provision, exportation, or reexportation, directly or indirectly, of financial services to or for the benefit of MOGE or its property or interests in property. Directive 1 also prohibits: (a) any transaction that evades or avoids, has the purpose of evading or avoiding, causes a violation of, or attempts to violate any of the prohibitions contained in Directive 1; and (b) any conspiracy formed to violate any of the prohibitions in Directive 1.

### Current Regulatory Action

In furtherance of the purposes of E.O. 14014, OFAC is revising 31 CFR part 525. The Regulations implement targeted sanctions that are directed at persons determined to meet the criteria set forth in §§ 525.201 and 525.202 of the Regulations, as well as sanctions that may be set forth in any further Executive orders issued pursuant to the national emergency declared in E.O. 14014. The sanctions in E.O. 14014 do not generally prohibit trade or the provision of banking or other financial services to the country of Burma. Instead, the sanctions in E.O. 14014 apply where the transaction or service in question involves property or interests in property that are blocked pursuant to these sanctions or are otherwise specifically prohibited.

Subpart A of the Regulations clarifies the relation of this part to other laws and regulations, refers to subpart C of part 501 for recordkeeping and reporting requirements, refers to subpart E of part 501 for applicable provisions relating to administrative procedures, contains a delegation of certain authorities of the Secretary of the Treasury, and sets forth a Paperwork Reduction Act notice.

                    Subpart B of the Regulations implements the prohibitions contained in sections 1 and 2 of E.O. 14014, as well as the prohibitions contained in any further Executive orders issued pursuant to the national emergency declared in E.O. 14014.                     *See, e.g.,*                     §§ 525.201, 525.202, and 525.208. Persons designated by or under the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury pursuant to E.O. 14014, or otherwise blocked pursuant to E.O.                           ( print page 89483)                        14014, as well as persons who are blocked pursuant to any further Executive orders issued pursuant to the national emergency declared in E.O. 14014, are referred to throughout the Regulations as “persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.” The names of persons designated or identified as blocked pursuant to E.O. 14014, or any further Executive orders issued pursuant to the national emergency declared therein are published on OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List), which is accessible via OFAC's website. Those names also are published in the                     **Federal Register**                     as they are added to the SDN List.                

Section 525.202 of subpart B implements Directive 1. Sections 525.203 and 525.204 of subpart B detail the effect of transfers of blocked property in violation of the Regulations and set forth the requirement to hold blocked funds, such as currency, bank deposits, or liquidated financial obligations, in interest-bearing blocked accounts. Section 525.205 of subpart B provides that all expenses incident to the maintenance of blocked tangible property shall be the responsibility of the owners and operators of such property, and that such expenses shall not be met from blocked funds, unless otherwise authorized. The section further provides that blocked property may, in OFAC's discretion, be sold or liquidated and the net proceeds placed in a blocked interest-bearing account in the name of the owner of the property.

Section 525.206 of subpart B prohibits any transaction that evades or avoids, has the purpose of evading or avoiding, causes a violation of, or attempts to violate any of the prohibitions set forth in the Regulations, and any conspiracy formed to violate such prohibitions. Section 525.207 of subpart B details transactions that are exempt from the prohibitions of the Regulations pursuant to section 203(b) of IEEPA (50 U.S.C. 1702(b)).

In subpart C of the Regulations, new definitions are being added to other key terms used throughout the Regulations. Because these new definitions were inserted in alphabetical order, the definitions that were in the prior abbreviated set of regulations have been renumbered. Similarly, in subpart D, which contains interpretive sections regarding the Regulations, certain provisions have been renumbered and others added to those in the prior abbreviated set of regulations. Section 525.411 of subpart D explains that the property and interests in property of an entity are blocked if the entity is directly or indirectly owned, whether individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more persons whose property and interests in property are blocked, whether or not the entity itself is incorporated into OFAC's SDN List.

                    Transactions otherwise prohibited by the Regulations but found to be consistent with U.S. policy may be authorized by one of the general licenses contained in subpart E of the Regulations or by a specific license issued pursuant to the procedures described in subpart E of 31 CFR part 501. OFAC is updating §  525.502 to conform with current OFAC statements of licensing policy and renumbering the general licenses at §§ 525.506 through 525.510 as §§ 525.507 through 525.511, respectively. OFAC is adding §  525.506, which authorizes the investment and reinvestment of assets blocked pursuant to § 525.201, subject to the certain conditions. OFAC is updating the renumbered §  525.508, which authorizes payment for legal services from funds originating outside the United States. OFAC is updating and renumbering the general license at § 525.512 as § 525.513. OFAC is also adding § 525.512 to incorporate Burma General License 3, which authorizes certain transactions in support of nongovernmental organizations' activities, was previously issued on OFAC's website on March 25, 2021, and will be removed upon publication of this rule. General licenses and statements of licensing policy relating to this part also may be available through the Burma sanctions page on OFAC's website:                     *https://ofac.treasury.gov.*

Subpart G of the Regulations describes the civil and criminal penalties applicable to violations of the Regulations, as well as the procedures governing the potential imposition of a civil monetary penalty or issuance of a Finding of Violation. Subpart G also refers to appendix A of part 501 for a more complete description of these procedures.

## Public Participation

Because the Regulations involve a foreign affairs function, the provisions of E.O. 12866 of September 30, 1993, “Regulatory Planning and Review” (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993), as amended, and the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553) requiring notice of proposed rulemaking, opportunity for public participation, and delay in effective date are inapplicable. Because no notice of proposed rulemaking is required for this rule, the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612) does not apply.

## Paperwork Reduction Act

The collections of information related to the Regulations are contained in 31 CFR part 501 (the “Reporting, Procedures and Penalties Regulations”). Pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3507), those collections of information have been approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 1505-0164. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless the collection of information displays a valid control number.

# List of Subjects in 31 CFR Part 525

      - Administrative practice and procedure
      - Banks
      - Banking
      - Blocking of assets
      - Burma
      - Credit
      - Foreign trade
      - Penalties
      - Reporting and recordkeeping requirements
      - Sanctions
      - Securities
      - Services

For the reasons set forth in the preamble, OFAC revises 31 CFR part 525 to read as follows:

# PART 525—BURMA SANCTIONS REGULATIONS

        Subpart A—General Provisions525.101 
Relation of this part to other laws and regulations.
525.102 
Records and reports.
525.103 
Procedures.
525.104 
Paperwork Reduction Act notice.
525.105 
[Reserved]
525.106 
Delegation of certain authorities of the Secretary of the Treasury.

        Subpart B—Prohibitions525.201 
Prohibited transactions.
525.202 
Prohibited transactions related to financial services to or for the benefit of Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) (Directive 1).
525.203 
Effect of transfers violating the provisions of this part.
525.204 
Holding of funds in interest-bearing accounts; investment and reinvestment.
525.205 
Expenses of maintaining blocked tangible property; liquidation of blocked property.
525.206 
Evasions; attempts; causing violations; conspiracies.
525.207 
Exempt transactions.

        Subpart C—General Definitions525.300 
Applicability of definitions.
525.301 
Blocked account; blocked property.
525.302 
Effective date.
525.303 
Entity.
525.304 
Financial, material, or technological support.
525.305 
Financial services.
525.306 
Foreign person.
525.307 
Government of Burma.
525.308 
Reserved.
525.309 
Interest.
525.310 
                                    Licenses; general and specific.                                    
      ( print page 89484)    
525.311 
OFAC.
525.312 
Person.
525.313 
Property; property interest.
525.314 
Transfer.
525.315 
United States.
525.316 
United States person; U.S. person.
525.317 
U.S. financial institution.

        Subpart D—Interpretations525.401 
Reference to amended sections.
525.402 
Effect of amendment.
525.403 
Termination and acquisition of an interest in blocked property.
525.404 
Transactions ordinarily incident to a licensed transaction.
525.405 
Provision and receipt of services.
525.406 
Offshore transactions involving blocked property.
525.407 
Payments from blocked accounts to satisfy obligations prohibited.
525.408 
Charitable contributions.
525.409 
Credit extended and cards issued by financial institutions to a person whose property and interests in property are blocked.
525.410 
Setoffs prohibited.
525.411 
Entities owned by one or more persons whose property and interests in property are blocked.
525.412 
Entities of which one or more blocked persons is a member, leader, official, senior executive officer, or otherwise exercises control.

        Subpart E—Licenses, Authorizations, and Statements of Licensing Policy525.501 
General and specific licensing procedures.
525.502 
Effect of license or other authorization.
525.503 
Exclusion from licenses.
525.504 
Payments and transfers to blocked accounts in U.S. financial institutions.
525.505 
Entries in certain accounts for normal service charges.
525.506 
Investment and reinvestment of certain funds.
525.507 
Provision of certain legal services.
525.508 
Payments for legal services from funds originating outside the United States.
525.509 
Emergency medical services.
525.510 
Official business of the United States Government.
525.511 
Official business of certain international organizations and entities.
525.512 
Certain transactions in support of nongovernmental organizations' activities.
525.513 
Transactions related to the provision of agricultural commodities, medicine, medical devices, replacement parts and components, or software updates for personal, non-commercial use.

        Subpart F—[Reserved]
        Subpart G—Penalties and Findings of Violation525.701 
Penalties.
525.702 
Pre-Penalty Notice; settlement.
525.703 
Penalty imposition.
525.704 
Administrative collection; referral to United States Department of Justice.
525.705 
Findings of Violation.

Authority:3 U.S.C. 301; 31 U.S.C. 321(b); 50 U.S.C. 1601-1651, 1701-1706; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note (Pub. L. 101-410, 104 Stat. 890, as amended); E.O. 14014, 86 FR 9429, 3 CFR, 2021 Comp., p. 514.

# Subpart A—General Provisions

§ 525.101

This part is separate from, and independent of, the other parts of this chapter, with the exception of part 501 of this chapter, the recordkeeping and reporting requirements and license application and other procedures, which applies to this part. Actions taken pursuant to part 501 of this chapter with respect to the prohibitions contained in this part are considered actions taken pursuant to this part. Differing foreign policy and national security circumstances may result in differing interpretations of similar language among the parts of this chapter. No license or authorization contained in or issued pursuant to those other parts authorizes any transaction prohibited by this part. No license or authorization contained in or issued pursuant to any other provision of law or regulation authorizes any transaction prohibited by this part. No license or authorization contained in or issued pursuant to this part relieves the involved parties from complying with any other applicable laws or regulations.

§ 525.102

For provisions relating to required records and reports, see part 501, subpart C, of this chapter. Recordkeeping and reporting requirements imposed by part 501 of this chapter with respect to the prohibitions contained in this part are considered requirements arising pursuant to this part.

§ 525.103

For license application procedures and procedures relating to amendments, modifications, or revocations of licenses; administrative decisions; rulemaking; and requests for documents pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Privacy Acts (5 U.S.C. 552 and 552a), see part 501, subpart E, of this chapter.

§ 525.104

For approval by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3507) of information collections relating to recordkeeping and reporting requirements, licensing procedures, and other procedures, see § 501.901 of this chapter. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a valid control number assigned by OMB.

§ 525.105

§ 525.106

Any action that the Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to take pursuant to E.O. 14014 of February 10, 2021 and any further Executive orders relating to the national emergency declared therein may be taken by the Director of OFAC or by any other person to whom the Secretary of the Treasury has delegated authority so to act.

# Subpart B—Prohibitions

§ 525.201

                                    (a)                                     *E.O. 14014.*                                     All property and interests in property that are in the United States, that come within the United States, or that are or come within the possession or control of any U.S. person of the following persons are blocked and may not be transferred, paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise dealt in:                                

(1) Any person determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State:

(i) To operate in the defense sector of the Burmese economy, the jet fuel sector of the Burmese economy, or any other sector of the Burmese economy as may be determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State;

(ii) To be responsible for or complicit in, or to have directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in, any of the following:

(A) Actions or policies that undermine democratic processes or institutions in Burma;

(B) Actions or policies that threaten the peace, security, or stability of Burma;

(C) Actions or policies that prohibit, limit, or penalize the exercise of freedom of expression or assembly by people in Burma, or that limit access to print, online, or broadcast media in Burma; or

(D) The arbitrary detention or torture of any person in Burma or other serious human rights abuse in Burma;

(iii) To be or have been a leader or official of:

(A) The military or security forces of Burma, or any successor entity to any of the foregoing;

(B) The Government of Burma on or after February 2, 2021;

                                    (C) An entity that has, or whose members have, engaged in any activity described in paragraph (a)(1)(ii) of this                                           ( print page 89485)                                        section relating to the leader's or official's tenure; or                                

(D) An entity whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to this paragraph (a)(1) as a result of activities related to the leader's or official's tenure;

(iv) To be a political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality of the Government of Burma;

(v) To be a spouse or adult child of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to this paragraph (a)(1);

(vi) To have materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to this paragraph (a)(1); or

(vii) To be owned or controlled by, or to have acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, the military or security forces of Burma or any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to this paragraph (a)(1).

(b) The prohibitions in paragraph (a) of this section include prohibitions on the following transactions:

(1) The making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section; and

(2) The receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section.

(c) Unless authorized by this part or by a specific license expressly referring to this part, any dealing in securities (or evidence thereof) held within the possession or control of a U.S. person and either registered or inscribed in the name of, or known to be held for the benefit of, or issued by, any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section is prohibited. This prohibition includes the transfer (including the transfer on the books of any issuer or agent thereof), disposition, transportation, importation, exportation, or withdrawal of, or the endorsement or guaranty of signatures on, any securities on or after the effective date. This prohibition applies irrespective of the fact that at any time (whether prior to, on, or subsequent to the effective date) the registered or inscribed owner of any such securities may have or might appear to have assigned, transferred, or otherwise disposed of the securities.

(d) The prohibitions in paragraph (a) of this section apply except to the extent provided by statutes, or in regulations, rulings, instructions, orders, directives, or licenses that may be issued pursuant to this part, and notwithstanding any contract entered into or any license or permit granted prior to the effective date.

(e) All transactions prohibited pursuant to any Executive order issued after February 10, 2021, pursuant to the national emergency declared in E.O. 14014 of February 10, 2021, are prohibited pursuant to this part.

# Note 1 to § 525.201.

                                        The names of persons designated or identified as blocked pursuant to E.O. 14014, or any further Executive orders issued pursuant to the national emergency declared therein, whose property and interests in property therefore are blocked pursuant to this section, are published in the                                         **Federal Register**                                         and incorporated into OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List) using the following identifiers: for E.O. 14014: “[BURMA-EO14014]”; and for any further Executive orders issued pursuant to the national emergency declared in E.O. 14014: using the identifier formulation “BURMA-E.O.[E.O. number pursuant to which the person's property and interests in property are blocked].” The SDN List is accessible through the following page on OFAC's website:                                         *https://ofac.treasury.gov/​sanctions-list-service.*                                         Additional information pertaining to the SDN List can be found in appendix A to part 501 of this chapter.                                         *See*                                         § 525.411 concerning entities that may not be listed on the SDN List but whose property and interests in property are nevertheless blocked pursuant to this section.                                    

# Note 2 to § 525.201.

                                        Section 203 of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702) authorizes the blocking of property and interests in property of a person during the pendency of an investigation. Except as described in Note 3 to this section, the names of persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pending investigation pursuant to this section are published in the                                         **Federal Register**                                         and incorporated into the SDN List using the following identifiers: for E.O. 14014 “[BPI-BURMA]”; and for any further Executive orders issued pursuant to the national emergency declared in E.O. 14014: using the identifier formulation “[BPI-BURMA-E.O.[E.O. number pursuant to which the person's property and interests in property are blocked pending investigation]].”                                    

# Note 3 to § 525.201.

                                        In certain cases, OFAC may issue an order to: identify as blocked specific property or interests in property of a person designated or otherwise blocked pursuant to this section; block specific property or interests in property of a person pending investigation; or block or impose other prohibitions with respect to specific property or interests in property less than full blocking sanctions. Notice of such orders will be provided: by publication in the                                         **Federal Register**                                        ; in writing to persons OFAC may assess to have an interest in the property; or by issuing an order or directive in writing to financial institutions or other transaction intermediaries, and requiring the recipient of the order or directive to promptly disclose it to affected persons with whom the recipient maintains direct commercial relationships. Inquiries regarding any such order should be directed to OFAC's Compliance Division at 202-622-2490 or                                         *https://ofac.treasury.gov/​contact-ofac.*

# Note 4 to § 525.201.

Subpart E of part 501 of this chapter describes the procedures to be followed for the release of property and interests in property blocked pursuant to this section, including funds blocked due to mistaken identity or typographical or similar errors, and for administrative reconsideration of one's status as a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant this section.

§ 525.202

The following activities by a U.S. person are prohibited on or after December 15, 2023: The provision, exportation, or reexportation, directly or indirectly, of financial services to or for the benefit of the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) or its property or interests in property.

§ 525.203

(a) Any transfer after the effective date that is in violation of any provision of this part or of any regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license issued pursuant to this part, and that involves any property or interest in property blocked pursuant to § 525.201, is null and void and shall not be the basis for the assertion or recognition of any interest in or right, remedy, power, or privilege with respect to such property or interest in property.

(b) No transfer before the effective date shall be the basis for the assertion or recognition of any right, remedy, power, or privilege with respect to, or any interest in, any property or interest in property blocked pursuant to § 525.201, unless the person who holds or maintains such property, prior to that date, had written notice of the transfer or by any written evidence had recognized such transfer.

                                    (c) Unless otherwise provided, a license or other authorization issued by OFAC before, during, or after a transfer shall validate such transfer or make it enforceable to the same extent that it would be valid or enforceable but for the provisions of this part and any regulation, ruling, instruction, order,                                           ( print page 89486)                                        directive, or license issued pursuant to this part.                                

(d) Transfers of property that otherwise would be null and void or unenforceable by virtue of the provisions of this section shall not be deemed to be null and void or unenforceable as to any person with whom such property is or was held or maintained (and as to such person only) in cases in which such person is able to establish to the satisfaction of OFAC each of the following:

(1) Such transfer did not represent a willful violation of the provisions of this part by the person with whom such property is or was held or maintained (and as to such person only);

(2) The person with whom such property is or was held or maintained did not have reasonable cause to know or suspect, in view of all the facts and circumstances known or available to such person, that such transfer required a license or authorization issued pursuant to this part and was not so licensed or authorized, or, if a license or authorization did purport to cover the transfer, that such license or authorization had been obtained by misrepresentation of a third party or withholding of material facts or was otherwise fraudulently obtained; and

(3) The person with whom such property is or was held or maintained filed with OFAC a report setting forth in full the circumstances relating to such transfer promptly upon discovery that:

(i) Such transfer was in violation of the provisions of this part or any regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, license, or other authorization issued pursuant to this part;

(ii) Such transfer was not licensed or authorized by OFAC; or

(iii) If a license did purport to cover the transfer, such license had been obtained by misrepresentation of a third party or withholding of material facts or was otherwise fraudulently obtained.

(e) The filing of a report in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (d)(3) of this section shall not be deemed evidence that the terms of paragraphs (d)(1) and (2) of this section have been satisfied.

(f) Unless licensed pursuant to this part, any attachment, judgment, decree, lien, execution, garnishment, or other judicial process is null and void with respect to any property or interest in property blocked pursuant to § 525.201.

§ 525.204

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (e) or (f) of this section, or as otherwise directed or authorized by OFAC, any U.S. person holding funds, such as currency, bank deposits, or liquidated financial obligations, subject to § 525.201 shall hold or place such funds in a blocked interest-bearing account located in the United States.

                                    (b)(1) For the purposes of this section, the term                                     *blocked interest-bearing account*                                     means a blocked account:                                

(i) In a federally insured U.S. bank, thrift institution, or credit union, provided the funds are earning interest at rates that are commercially reasonable; or

                                    (ii) With a broker or dealer registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78a*et seq.*), provided the funds are invested in a money market fund or in U.S. Treasury bills.                                

(2) Funds held or placed in a blocked account pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section may not be invested in instruments the maturity of which exceeds 180 days.

(c) For the purposes of this section, a rate is commercially reasonable if it is the rate currently offered to other depositors on deposits or instruments of comparable size and maturity.

(d) For the purposes of this section, if interest is credited to a separate blocked account or subaccount, the name of the account party on each account must be the same.

(e) Blocked funds held in instruments the maturity of which exceeds 180 days at the time the funds become subject to § 525.201 may continue to be held until maturity in the original instrument, provided any interest, earnings, or other proceeds derived therefrom are paid into a blocked interest-bearing account in accordance with paragraph (a) or (f) of this section.

(f) Blocked funds held in accounts or instruments outside the United States at the time the funds become subject to § 525.201 may continue to be held in the same type of accounts or instruments, provided the funds earn interest at rates that are commercially reasonable.

(g) This section does not create an affirmative obligation for the holder of blocked tangible property, such as real or personal property, or of other blocked property, such as debt or equity securities, to sell or liquidate such property. However, OFAC may issue licenses permitting or directing such sales or liquidation in appropriate cases.

(h) Funds blocked pursuant to § 525.201 may not be held, invested, or reinvested in a manner that provides financial or economic benefit or access to any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, nor may their holder cooperate in or facilitate the pledging or other attempted use as collateral of blocked funds or other assets.

§ 525.205

(a) Except as otherwise authorized, and notwithstanding the existence of any rights or obligations conferred or imposed by any international agreement or contract entered into or any license or permit granted prior to the effective date, all expenses incident to the maintenance of tangible property blocked pursuant to § 525.201 shall be the responsibility of the owners or operators of such property, which expenses shall not be met from blocked funds.

(b) Property blocked pursuant to § 525.201 may, in the discretion of OFAC, be sold or liquidated and the net proceeds placed in a blocked interest-bearing account in the name of the owner of the property.

§ 525.206

(a) Any transaction on or after the effective date that evades or avoids, has the purpose of evading or avoiding, causes a violation of, or attempts to violate any of the prohibitions set forth in this part is prohibited.

(b) Any conspiracy formed to violate the prohibitions set forth in this part is prohibited.

§ 525.207

*International Emergency Economic Powers Act.*                                     The prohibitions contained in this part do not apply to any transactions that are exempt pursuant to section 203(b) of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702(b)).                                

# Note 1 to § 525.207.

*See*                                         §§ 525.512 and 525.513 for general licenses related to humanitarian assistance.                                    

# Note 2 to § 525.207.

*See*                                         § 525.510 and § 525.511 for general licenses authorizing transactions for the conduct of the official business of the United States Government and certain international organizations and entities, respectively.                                    

# Subpart C—General Definitions

§ 525.300

The definitions in this subpart apply throughout the entire part.

§ 525.301

                                    The terms                                     *blocked account*                                     and                                     *blocked property*                                     mean any account or property subject to the prohibitions in § 525.201 held in the name of a person                                           ( print page 89487)                                        whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, or in which such person has an interest, and with respect to which payments, transfers, exportations, withdrawals, or other dealings may not be made or effected except pursuant to a license or other authorization from OFAC expressly authorizing such action.                                

# Note 1 to § 525.301.

*See*                                         § 525.411 concerning the blocked status of property and interests in property of an entity that is directly or indirectly owned, whether individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.                                    

§ 525.302

                                    (a) The term                                     *effective date*                                     refers to the effective date of the applicable prohibitions and directives contained in this part as follows:                                

(1) With respect to a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, the earlier of the date of actual or constructive notice that such person's property and interests in property are blocked;

(2) With respect to transactions prohibited by § 525.202, December 15, 2023.

                                    (b) For the purposes of this section,                                     *constructive notice*                                     is the date that a notice of the blocking of the relevant person's property and interests in property is published in the                                     **Federal Register**                                    .                                

§ 525.303

                                    The term                                     *entity*                                     means a partnership, association, trust, joint venture, corporation, group, subgroup, or other organization.                                

§ 525.304

                                    The term                                     *financial, material, or technological support*                                     means any property, tangible or intangible, including currency, financial instruments, securities, or any other transmission of value; weapons or related materiel; chemical or biological agents; explosives; false documentation or identification; communications equipment; computers; electronic or other devices or equipment; technologies; lodging; safe houses; facilities; vehicles or other means of transportation; or goods. “Technologies” as used in this section means specific information necessary for the development, production, or use of a product, including related technical data such as blueprints, plans, diagrams, models, formulae, tables, engineering designs and specifications, manuals, or other recorded instructions.                                

§ 525.305

                                    The term                                     *financial services,*                                     as used in § 525.202, includes loans, transfers, accounts, insurance, investments, securities, guarantees, foreign exchange, letters of credit, and commodity futures or options.                                

§ 525.306

                                    The term                                     *foreign person*                                     means any person that is not a U.S. person.                                

§ 525.307

                                    The term                                     *Government of Burma*                                     means the Government of Burma, any political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality thereof, including the Central Bank of Myanmar, and any person owned or controlled by, or acting for or on behalf of, the Government of Burma.                                

§ 525.308

§ 525.309

                                    Except as otherwise provided in this part, the term                                     *interest,*                                     when used with respect to property (                                    *e.g.,*                                     “an interest in property”), means an interest of any nature whatsoever, direct or indirect.                                

§ 525.310

                                    (a) Except as otherwise provided in this part, the term                                     *license*                                     means any license or authorization contained in or issued pursuant to this part.                                

                                    (b) The term                                     *general license*                                     means any license or authorization the terms of which are set forth in subpart E of this part or made available on OFAC's website:                                     *https://ofac.treasury.gov.*

                                    (c) The term                                     *specific license*                                     means any license or authorization issued pursuant to this part but not set forth in subpart E of this part or made available on OFAC's website:                                     *https://ofac.treasury.gov.*

# Note 1 to § 525.310.

*See*                                         § 501.801 of this chapter on licensing procedures.                                    

§ 525.311

                                    The term                                     *OFAC*                                     means the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control.                                

§ 525.312

                                    The term                                     *person*                                     means an individual or entity.                                

§ 525.313

                                    The terms                                     *property*                                     and                                     *property interest*                                     include money, checks, drafts, bullion, bank deposits, savings accounts, debts, indebtedness, obligations, notes, guarantees, debentures, stocks, bonds, coupons, any other financial instruments, bankers acceptances, mortgages, pledges, liens or other rights in the nature of security, warehouse receipts, bills of lading, trust receipts, bills of sale, any other evidences of title, ownership, or indebtedness, letters of credit and any documents relating to any rights or obligations thereunder, powers of attorney, goods, wares, merchandise, chattels, stocks on hand, ships, goods on ships, real estate mortgages, deeds of trust, vendors' sales agreements, land contracts, leaseholds, ground rents, real estate and any other interest therein, options, negotiable instruments, trade acceptances, royalties, book accounts, accounts payable, judgments, patents, trademarks or copyrights, insurance policies, safe deposit boxes and their contents, annuities, pooling agreements, services of any nature whatsoever, contracts of any nature whatsoever, and any other property, real, personal, or mixed, tangible or intangible, or interest or interests therein, present, future, or contingent.                                

§ 525.314

                                    The term                                     *transfer*                                     means any actual or purported act or transaction, whether or not evidenced by writing, and whether or not done or performed within the United States, the purpose, intent, or effect of which is to create, surrender, release, convey, transfer, or alter, directly or indirectly, any right, remedy, power, privilege, or interest with respect to any property. Without limitation on the foregoing, it shall include the making, execution, or delivery of any assignment, power, conveyance, check, declaration, deed, deed of trust, power of attorney, power of appointment, bill of sale, mortgage, receipt, agreement, contract, certificate, gift, sale, affidavit, or statement; the making of any payment; the setting off of any obligation or credit; the appointment of any agent, trustee, or fiduciary; the creation or transfer of any lien; the issuance, docketing, filing, or levy of or under any judgment, decree, attachment, injunction, execution, or other judicial or administrative process or order, or the service of any garnishment; the acquisition of any interest of any nature whatsoever by reason of a judgment or decree of any foreign country; the fulfillment of any condition; the exercise of any power of appointment, power of attorney, or other power; or the acquisition, disposition, transportation, importation, exportation, or withdrawal of any security.                                

§ 525.315

                                    The term                                     *United States*                                     means the United States, its territories and                                           ( print page 89488)                                        possessions, and all areas under the jurisdiction or authority thereof.                                

§ 525.316

                                    The term                                     *United States person*                                     or                                     *U.S. person*                                     means any United States citizen, lawful permanent resident, entity organized under the laws of the United States or any jurisdiction within the United States (including foreign branches), or any person in the United States.                                

§ 525.317

                                    The term                                     *U.S. financial institution*                                     means any U.S. entity (including its foreign branches) that is engaged in the business of accepting deposits, making, granting, transferring, holding, or brokering loans or credits, purchasing or selling foreign exchange, securities, futures or options, or procuring purchasers and sellers thereof, as principal or agent. It includes depository institutions, banks, savings banks, money services businesses, operators of credit card systems, trust companies, insurance companies, securities brokers and dealers, futures and options brokers and dealers, forward contract and foreign exchange merchants, securities and commodities exchanges, clearing corporations, investment companies, employee benefit plans, dealers in precious metals, stones, or jewels, and U.S. holding companies, U.S. affiliates, or U.S. subsidiaries of any of the foregoing. This term includes those branches, offices, and agencies of foreign financial institutions that are located in the United States, but not such institutions' foreign branches, offices, or agencies.                                

# Subpart D—Interpretations

§ 525.401

                                    (a) Reference to any section in this part is a reference to the same as currently amended, unless the reference includes a specific date.                                     *See*44 U.S.C. 1510.                                

(b) Reference to any regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license issued pursuant to this part is a reference to the same as currently amended unless otherwise specified.

§ 525.402

Unless otherwise specifically provided, any amendment, modification, or revocation of any provision in or appendix to this part or chapter or of any regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license issued by OFAC does not affect any act done or omitted, or any civil or criminal proceeding commenced or pending, prior to such amendment, modification, or revocation. All penalties, forfeitures, and liabilities under any such regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license continue and may be enforced as if such amendment, modification, or revocation had not been made.

§ 525.403

(a) Whenever a transaction licensed or authorized by or pursuant to this part results in the transfer of property (including any property interest) away from a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, such property shall no longer be deemed to be property blocked pursuant to § 525.201, unless there exists in the property another interest that is blocked pursuant to § 525.201, the transfer of which has not been effected pursuant to license or other authorization.

(b) Unless otherwise specifically provided in a license or authorization issued pursuant to this part, if property (including any property interest) is transferred or attempted to be transferred to a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, such property shall be deemed to be property in which such person has an interest and therefore blocked.

§ 525.404

(a) Any transaction ordinarily incident to a licensed transaction and necessary to give effect thereto is also authorized, except:

(1) An ordinarily incident transaction, not explicitly authorized within the terms of the license, by or with a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201; or

(2) An ordinarily incident transaction, not explicitly authorized within the terms of the license, involving a debit to a blocked account or a transfer of blocked property.

(b) For example, a license authorizing a person to complete a securities sale involving Company A, whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, also authorizes other persons to engage in activities that are ordinarily incident and necessary to complete the sale, including transactions by the buyer, broker, transfer agents, and banks, provided that such other persons are not themselves persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.

§ 525.405

(a) The prohibitions contained in § 525.201 apply to services performed in the United States or by U.S. persons, wherever located:

(1) On behalf of or for the benefit of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201; or

(2) With respect to property interests of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.

(b) The prohibitions on transactions contained in § 525.201 apply to services received in the United States or by U.S. persons, wherever located, where the service is performed by, or at the direction of, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.

(c) For example, U.S. persons may not, except as authorized by or pursuant to this part, provide legal, accounting, financial, brokering, freight forwarding, transportation, public relations, or other services to any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, or negotiate with or enter into contracts signed by a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.

# Note 1 to § 525.405.

*See*                                         §§ 525.507 and 525.509 for general licenses authorizing the provision of certain legal and emergency medical services.                                    

§ 525.406

The prohibitions in § 525.201 on transactions or dealings involving blocked property, as defined in § 525.301, apply to transactions by any U.S. person in a location outside the United States.

§ 525.407

Pursuant to § 525.201, no debits may be made to a blocked account to pay obligations to U.S. persons or other persons, except as authorized by or pursuant to this part.

# Note 1 to § 525.407.

*See also*                                         § 525.502(e), which provides that no license or other authorization contained in or issued pursuant to this part authorizes transfers of or payments from blocked property or debits to blocked accounts unless the license or other authorization explicitly authorizes the transfer of or payment from blocked property or the debit to a blocked account.                                    

§ 525.408

                                    Unless specifically authorized by OFAC pursuant to this part, no charitable contribution of funds, goods,                                           ( print page 89489)                                        services, or technology, including contributions to relieve human suffering, such as food, clothing, or medicine, may be made by, to, or for the benefit of, or received from, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201. For the purposes of this part, a contribution is made by, to, or for the benefit of, or received from, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201 if made by, to, or in the name of, or received from or in the name of, such a person; if made by, to, or in the name of, or received from or in the name of, an entity or individual acting for or on behalf of, or owned or controlled by, such a person; or if made in an attempt to violate, to evade, or to avoid the bar on the provision of contributions by, to, or for the benefit of such a person, or the receipt of contributions from such a person.                                

§ 525.409 

The prohibition in § 525.201 on dealing in property subject to that section prohibits U.S. financial institutions from performing under any existing credit agreements, including charge cards, debit cards, or other credit facilities issued by a financial institution to a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.

§ 525.410

A setoff against blocked property (including a blocked account), whether by a U.S. financial institution or other U.S. person, is a prohibited transfer under § 525.201 if effected after the effective date.

§ 525.411

Persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201 have an interest in all property and interests in property of an entity in which such persons directly or indirectly own, whether individually or in the aggregate, a 50 percent or greater interest. The property and interests in property of such an entity, therefore, are blocked, and such an entity is a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, regardless of whether the name of the entity is incorporated into OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List).

§ 525.412

(a) The property and interests in property of an entity, including any political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality of a governmental entity, are not blocked solely because one or more persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201 is a member, leader, official, senior executive officer, or otherwise exercises control.

# Note 1 to paragraph (a).

*See*                                         § 525.411 concerning the blocked status of property and interests in property of an entity that is directly or indirectly owned, whether individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.                                    

(b) For example, U.S. persons may not, except as authorized or exempt pursuant to this part, engage in the following transactions with a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201: enter into contracts that are signed by a blocked person, enter into negotiations with a blocked person, or process transactions, directly or indirectly, on behalf of a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201. However, U.S. persons are not prohibited from engaging in a routine interaction with an agency in which a blocked person is an official, but which does not involve the blocked person directly or indirectly.

# Note 2 to § 525.412.

 OFAC encourages U.S. persons to be cautious in engaging in transactions with any entity of which a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201 is a member, leader, official, senior executive officer, or otherwise exercises control to ensure that U.S. persons are not engaged in transactions, directly or indirectly, with a blocked person, except as authorized or exempt pursuant to this part.

# Subpart E—Licenses, Authorizations, and Statements of Licensing Policy

§ 525.501 

                                    For provisions relating to licensing procedures, see part 501, subpart E, of this chapter. Licensing actions taken pursuant to part 501 of this chapter with respect to the prohibitions contained in this part are considered actions taken pursuant to this part. General licenses and statements of licensing policy relating to this part also may be available through the Burma sanctions page on OFAC's website:                                     *https://ofac.treasury.gov.*

§ 525.502 

(a) No license or other authorization contained in this part, or otherwise issued by OFAC, authorizes or validates any transaction effected prior to the issuance of such license or other authorization, unless specifically provided in such license or authorization.

(b) No regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license authorizes any transaction prohibited under this part unless the regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license is issued by OFAC and specifically refers to this part. No regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license referring to this part shall be deemed to authorize any transaction prohibited by any other part of this chapter unless the regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license specifically refers to such part.

(c) Any regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license authorizing any transaction prohibited under this part has the effect of removing a prohibition contained in this part from the transaction, but only to the extent specifically stated by its terms. Unless the regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license otherwise specifies, such an authorization does not create any right, duty, obligation, claim, or interest in, or with respect to, any property that would not otherwise exist under ordinary principles of law.

(d) Nothing contained in this part shall be construed to supersede the requirements established under any other provision of law or to relieve a person from any requirement to obtain a license or other authorization from another department or agency of the U.S. government in compliance with applicable laws and regulations subject to the jurisdiction of that department or agency. For example, exports of goods, services, or technical data that are not prohibited by this part or that do not require a license by OFAC nevertheless may require authorization by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of State, or other agencies of the U.S. government.

(e) No license or other authorization contained in or issued pursuant to this part authorizes transfers of or payments from blocked property or debits to blocked accounts unless the license or other authorization explicitly authorizes the transfer of or payment from blocked property or the debit to a blocked account.

                                    (f) Any payment relating to a transaction authorized in or pursuant to this part that is routed through the U.S. financial system should reference the                                           ( print page 89490)                                        relevant OFAC general or specific license authorizing the payment to avoid the blocking or rejection of the transfer.                                

§ 525.503

OFAC reserves the right to exclude any person, property, transaction, or class thereof from the operation of any license or from the privileges conferred by any license. OFAC also reserves the right to restrict the applicability of any license to particular persons, property, transactions, or classes thereof. Such actions are binding upon actual or constructive notice of the exclusions or restrictions.

§ 525.504 

Any payment of funds or transfer of credit in which a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201 has any interest that comes within the possession or control of a U.S. financial institution must be blocked in an account on the books of that financial institution. A transfer of funds or credit by a U.S. financial institution between blocked accounts in its branches or offices is authorized, provided that no transfer is made from an account within the United States to an account held outside the United States, and further provided that a transfer from a blocked account may be made only to another blocked account held in the same name.

# Note 1 to § 525.504.

*See*                                         § 501.603 of this chapter for mandatory reporting requirements regarding financial transfers.                                         *See also*                                         § 525.204 concerning the obligation to hold blocked funds in interest-bearing accounts.                                    

§ 525.505 

(a) A U.S. financial institution is authorized to debit any blocked account held at that financial institution in payment or reimbursement for normal service charges owed it by the owner of that blocked account.

                                    (b) As used in this section, the term                                     *normal service charges*                                     shall include charges in payment or reimbursement for interest due; cable, telegraph, internet, or telephone charges; postage costs; custody fees; small adjustment charges to correct bookkeeping errors; and, but not by way of limitation, minimum balance charges, notary and protest fees, and charges for reference books, photocopies, credit reports, transcripts of statements, registered mail, insurance, stationery and supplies, and other similar items.                                

§ 525.506

Subject to the requirements of § 525.204, U.S. financial institutions are authorized to invest and reinvest assets blocked pursuant to § 525.201, subject to the following conditions:

(a) The assets representing such investments and reinvestments are credited to a blocked account or subaccount that is held in the same name at the same U.S. financial institution, or within the possession or control of a U.S. person, but funds shall not be transferred outside the United States for this purpose;

(b) The proceeds of such investments and reinvestments shall not be credited to a blocked account or subaccount under any name or designation that differs from the name or designation of the specific blocked account or subaccount in which such funds or securities were held; and

                                    (c) No immediate financial or economic benefit accrues (                                    *e.g.,*                                     through pledging or other use) to a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201.                                

§ 525.507 

(a) The provision of the following legal services to or on behalf of persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201 is authorized, provided that any receipt of payment of professional fees and reimbursement of incurred expenses must be authorized pursuant to § 525.508, which authorizes certain payments for legal services from funds originating outside the United States; via specific license; or otherwise pursuant to this part:

(1) Provision of legal advice and counseling on the requirements of and compliance with the laws of the United States or any jurisdiction within the United States, provided that such advice and counseling are not provided to facilitate transactions in violation of this part;

(2) Representation of persons named as defendants in or otherwise made parties to legal, arbitration, or administrative proceedings before any U.S. federal, state, or local court or agency;

(3) Initiation and conduct of legal, arbitration, or administrative proceedings before any U.S. federal, state, or local court or agency;

(4) Representation of persons before any U.S. federal, state, or local court or agency with respect to the imposition, administration, or enforcement of U.S. sanctions against such persons; and

(5) Provision of legal services in any other context in which prevailing U.S. law requires access to legal counsel at public expense.

(b) The provision of any other legal services to or on behalf of persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, not otherwise authorized in this part, requires the issuance of a specific license.

                                    (c) U.S. persons do not need to obtain specific authorization to provide related services, such as making filings and providing other administrative services, that are ordinarily incident to the provision of services authorized by paragraph (a) of this section. Additionally, U.S. persons who provide services authorized by paragraph (a) of this section do not need to obtain specific authorization to contract for related services that are ordinarily incident to the provision of those legal services, such as those provided by private investigators or expert witnesses, or to pay for such services.                                     *See*                                     § 525.404.                                

(d) Entry into a settlement agreement or the enforcement of any lien, judgment, arbitral award, decree, or other order through execution, garnishment, or other judicial process purporting to transfer or otherwise alter or affect property or interests in property blocked pursuant to § 525.201 is prohibited unless licensed pursuant to this part.

# Note 1 to § 525.507.

 Pursuant to part 501, subpart E, of this chapter, U.S. persons seeking administrative reconsideration or judicial review of their designation or the blocking of their property and interests in property may apply for a specific license from OFAC to authorize the release of certain blocked funds for the payment of professional fees and reimbursement of incurred expenses for the provision of such legal services where alternative funding sources are not available.

§ 525.508 

                                    (a)                                     *Professional fees and incurred expenses.*                                     (1) Receipt of payment of professional fees and reimbursement of incurred expenses for the provision of legal services authorized pursuant to § 525.507(a) to or on behalf of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, is authorized from funds originating outside the United States, provided that the funds do not originate from:                                

(i) A source within the United States;

                                    (ii) Any source, wherever located, within the possession or control of a U.S. person; or                                          ( print page 89491)    

(iii) Any individual or entity, other than the person on whose behalf the legal services authorized pursuant to § 525.507(a) are to be provided, whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to any part of this chapter or any Executive order or statute.

(2) Nothing in this paragraph (a) authorizes payments for legal services using funds in which any other person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to § 525.201, any other part of this chapter, or any Executive order or statute has an interest.

                                    (b)                                     *Records.*                                     Consistent with §§ 501.601 and 501.602 of this chapter, U.S. persons who receive payments pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section must retain for 10 years from the date of the relevant payment, and furnish to OFAC on demand, a record that specifies the following for each payment:                                

(1) The individual or entity from whom the funds originated and the amount of funds received; and

(2) If applicable:

(i) The names of any individuals or entities providing related services to the U.S. person receiving payment in connection with authorized legal services, such as private investigators or expert witnesses;

(ii) A general description of the services provided; and

(iii) The amount of funds paid in connection with such services.

§ 525.509 

The provision and receipt of nonscheduled emergency medical services that are prohibited by this part are authorized.

§ 525.510 

All transactions prohibited by this part that are for the conduct of the official business of the United States government by employees, grantees, or contractors thereof are authorized.

§ 525.511

All transactions prohibited by this part that are for the conduct of the official business of the following entities by employees, grantees, or contractors thereof are authorized:

(a) The United Nations, including its Programmes, Funds, and Other Entities and Bodies, as well as its Specialized Agencies and Related Organizations;

(b) The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA);

(c) The African Development Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group), including any fund entity administered or established by any of the foregoing;

(d) The International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies; and

(e) The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

§ 525.512

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, all transactions prohibited by this part that are ordinarily incident and necessary to the activities described in paragraph (b) of this section by a nongovernmental organization are authorized, provided that the nongovernmental organization is not a person whose property or interests in property are blocked pursuant to this part.

(b) The activities referenced in paragraph (a) of this section are non-commercial activities designed to directly benefit the civilian population that fall into one of the following categories:

(1) Activities to support humanitarian projects to meet basic human needs, including disaster, drought, or flood relief; food, nutrition, or medicine distribution; the provision of health services; assistance for vulnerable or displaced populations, including individuals with disabilities and the elderly; and environmental programs;

(2) Activities to support democracy building, including activities to support rule of law, citizen participation, government accountability and transparency, human rights and fundamental freedoms, access to information, and civil society development projects;

(3) Activities to support education, including combating illiteracy, increasing access to education, international exchanges, and assisting education reform projects;

(4) Activities to support non-commercial development projects directly benefiting civilians, including those related to health, food security, and water and sanitation;

(5) Activities to support environmental and natural resource protection, including the preservation and protection of threatened or endangered species, responsible and transparent management of natural resources, and the remediation of pollution or other environmental damage; and

(6) Activities to support disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs and peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and conflict resolution programs.

(c) This section does not authorize funds transfers initiated or processed with knowledge or reason to know that the intended beneficiary of such transfers is a person blocked pursuant to this part, other than for the purpose of effecting the payment of taxes, fees, or import duties, or the purchase or receipt of permits, licenses, or public utility services.

(d) Specific licenses may be issued on a case-by-case basis to authorize nongovernmental or other entities to engage in other activities designed to directly benefit the civilian population, including support for the removal of landmines and economic development projects directly benefiting the civilian population.

# Note 1 to § 525.512.

 This section does not relieve any person authorized thereunder from complying with any other applicable laws or regulations.

§ 525.513 

(a) All transactions prohibited by this part that are related to the provision, directly or indirectly, of agricultural commodities, medicine, medical devices, replacement parts and components for medical devices, or software updates for medical devices to an individual whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to this part are authorized, provided the items are in quantities consistent with personal, non-commercial use.

                                    (b) For the purposes of this section,                                     *agricultural commodities, medicine,*                                     and                                     *medical devices*                                     are defined as follows:                                

                                    (1)                                     *Agricultural commodities.*                                     For the purposes of this section,                                     *agricultural commodities*                                     are:                                

(i) Products that fall within the term “agricultural commodity” as defined in section 102 of the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 5602); and

(ii) That are intended for ultimate use as:

(A) Food for humans (including raw, processed, and packaged foods; live animals; vitamins and minerals; food additives or supplements; and bottled drinking water) or animals (including animal feeds);

                                    (B) Seeds for food crops;                                          ( print page 89492)    

(C) Fertilizers or organic fertilizers; or

(D) Reproductive materials (such as live animals, fertilized eggs, embryos, and semen) for the production of food animals.

                                    (2)                                     *Medicine.*                                     For the purposes of this section,                                     *medicine*                                     is an item that falls within the definition of the term “drug” in section 201 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321).                                

                                    (3)                                     *Medical devices.*                                     For the purposes of this section, a                                     *medical device*                                     is an item that falls within the definition of “device” in section 201 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 321).                                

# Note 1 to § 525.513.

 This section does not relieve any person authorized thereunder from complying with any other applicable laws or regulations.

# Subpart F—[Reserved]

# Subpart G—Penalties and Findings of Violation

§ 525.701

                                    (a) The penalties available under section 206 of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701*et seq.*) (IEEPA) are applicable to violations of the provisions of any regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license issued by or pursuant to the direction or authorization of the Secretary of the Treasury pursuant to this part or otherwise under IEEPA.                                

(1) A civil penalty not to exceed the amount set forth in section 206 of IEEPA may be imposed on any person who violates, attempts to violate, conspires to violate, or causes a violation of any regulation in this part, ruling, instruction, order, directive, license, or prohibition issued under IEEPA.

(2) IEEPA provides for a maximum civil penalty not to exceed the greater of $368,136 or an amount that is twice the amount of the transaction that is the basis of the violation with respect to which the penalty is imposed.

(3) A person who willfully commits, willfully attempts to commit, willfully conspires to commit, or aids or abets in the commission of a violation of any regulation in this part, ruling, instruction, order, directive, license, or prohibition may, upon conviction, be fined not more than $1,000,000, or if a natural person, be imprisoned for not more than 20 years, or both.

(b)(1) The civil penalties provided in IEEPA are subject to adjustment pursuant to the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 1990 (28 U.S.C. 2461 note; Pub. L. 101-410, as amended).

(2) The criminal penalties provided in IEEPA are subject to adjustment pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 3571.

(c) Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1001, whoever, in any matter within the jurisdiction of the executive, legislative, or judicial branch of the government of the United States, knowingly and willfully falsifies, conceals, or covers up by any trick, scheme, or device a material fact; or makes any materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or representation; or makes or uses any false writing or document knowing the same to contain any materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or entry shall be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned, or both.

(d) Violations of this part may also be subject to other applicable laws.

§ 525.702 

                                    (a)                                     *When required.*                                     If OFAC has reason to believe that there has occurred a violation of any provision of this part or a violation of the provisions of any regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license issued by or pursuant to the direction or authorization of the Secretary of the Treasury pursuant to this part or otherwise under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701*et seq.*) and determines that a civil monetary penalty is warranted, OFAC will issue a Pre-Penalty Notice informing the alleged violator of the agency's intent to impose a monetary penalty. A Pre-Penalty Notice shall be in writing. The Pre-Penalty Notice may be issued whether or not another agency has taken any action with respect to the matter. For a description of the contents of a Pre-Penalty Notice, see appendix A to part 501 of this chapter.                                

                                    (b)                                     *Response*                                    —(1)                                     *Right to respond.*                                     An alleged violator has the right to respond to a Pre-Penalty Notice by making a written presentation to OFAC. For a description of the information that should be included in such a response, see appendix A to part 501 of this chapter.                                

                                    (2)                                     *Deadline for response.*                                     A response to a Pre-Penalty Notice must be made within 30 days as set forth in paragraphs (b)(2)(i) and (ii) of this section. The failure to submit a response within 30 days shall be deemed to be a waiver of the right to respond.                                

                                    (i)                                     *Computation of time for response.*                                     A response to a Pre-Penalty Notice must be postmarked or date-stamped by the U.S. Postal Service (or foreign postal service, if mailed abroad) or courier service provider (if transmitted to OFAC by courier), or dated if sent by email, on or before the 30th day after the postmark date on the envelope in which the Pre-Penalty Notice was mailed or date the Pre-Penalty Notice was emailed. If the Pre-Penalty Notice was personally delivered by a non-U.S. Postal Service agent authorized by OFAC, a response must be postmarked or date-stamped on or before the 30th day after the date of delivery.                                

                                    (ii)                                     *Extensions of time for response.*                                     If a due date falls on a federal holiday or weekend, that due date is extended to include the following business day. Any other extensions of time will be granted, at the discretion of OFAC, only upon specific request to OFAC.                                

                                    (3)                                     *Form and method of response.*                                     A response to a Pre-Penalty Notice need not be in any particular form, but it must be typewritten and signed by the alleged violator or a representative thereof (electronic signature is acceptable), contain information sufficient to indicate that it is in response to the Pre-Penalty Notice, and include the OFAC identification number listed on the Pre-Penalty Notice. The response must be sent to OFAC's Enforcement Division by mail or courier or email and must be postmarked or date-stamped in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section.                                

                                    (c)                                     *Settlement.*                                     Settlement discussion may be initiated by OFAC, the alleged violator, or the alleged violator's authorized representative. For a description of practices with respect to settlement, see appendix A to part 501 of this chapter.                                

                                    (d)                                     *Guidelines.*                                     Guidelines for the imposition or settlement of civil penalties by OFAC are contained in appendix A to part 501 of this chapter.                                

                                    (e)                                     *Representation.*                                     A representative of the alleged violator may act on behalf of the alleged violator, but any oral communication with OFAC prior to a written submission regarding the specific allegations contained in the Pre-Penalty Notice must be preceded by a written letter of representation, unless the Pre-Penalty Notice was served upon the alleged violator in care of the representative.                                

§ 525.703

                                    If, after considering any written response to the Pre-Penalty Notice and any relevant facts, OFAC determines that there was a violation by the alleged violator named in the Pre-Penalty Notice and that a civil monetary penalty is appropriate, OFAC may issue a Penalty Notice to the violator containing a determination of the violation and the imposition of the monetary penalty. For additional details concerning issuance of a Penalty Notice, see appendix A to part 501 of this chapter. The issuance of                                           ( print page 89493)                                        the Penalty Notice shall constitute final agency action. The violator has the right to seek judicial review of that final agency action in Federal district court.                                

§ 525.70

In the event that the violator does not pay the penalty imposed pursuant to this part or make payment arrangements acceptable to OFAC, the matter may be referred for administrative collection measures by the Department of the Treasury or to the United States Department of Justice for appropriate action to recover the penalty in a civil suit in a federal district court.

§ 525.705 

                                    (a)                                     *When issued.*                                     (1) OFAC may issue an initial Finding of Violation that identifies a violation if OFAC:                                

                                    (i) Determines that there has occurred a violation of any provision of this part, or a violation of the provisions of any regulation, ruling, instruction, order, directive, or license issued by or pursuant to the direction or authorization of the Secretary of the Treasury pursuant to this part or otherwise under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701*et seq*);                                

(ii) Considers it important to document the occurrence of a violation; and

(iii) Based on the Guidelines contained in appendix A to part 501 of this chapter, concludes that an administrative response is warranted but that a civil monetary penalty is not the most appropriate response.

(2) An initial Finding of Violation shall be in writing and may be issued whether or not another agency has taken any action with respect to the matter. For additional details concerning issuance of a Finding of Violation, see appendix A to part 501 of this chapter.

                                    (b)                                     *Response*                                    —(1)                                     *Right to respond.*                                     An alleged violator has the right to contest an initial Finding of Violation by providing a written response to OFAC.                                

                                    (2)                                     *Deadline for response; default determination.*                                     A response to an initial Finding of Violation must be made within 30 days as set forth in paragraphs (b)(2)(i) and (ii) of this section. The failure to submit a response within 30 days shall be deemed to be a waiver of the right to respond, and the initial Finding of Violation will become final and will constitute final agency action. The violator has the right to seek judicial review of that final agency action in federal district court.                                

                                    (i)                                     *Computation of time for response.*                                     A response to an initial Finding of Violation must be postmarked or date-stamped by the U.S. Postal Service (or foreign postal service, if mailed abroad) or courier service provider (if transmitted to OFAC by courier), or dated if sent by email, on or before the 30th day after the postmark date on the envelope in which the initial Finding of Violation was served or date the Finding of Violation was sent by email. If the initial Finding of Violation was personally delivered by a non-U.S. Postal Service agent authorized by OFAC, a response must be postmarked or date-stamped on or before the 30th day after the date of delivery.                                

                                    (ii)                                     *Extensions of time for response.*                                     If a due date falls on a federal holiday or weekend, that due date is extended to include the following business day. Any other extensions of time will be granted, at the discretion of OFAC, only upon specific request to OFAC.                                

                                    (3)                                     *Form and method of response.*                                     A response to an initial Finding of Violation need not be in any particular form, but it must be typewritten and signed by the alleged violator or a representative thereof (electronic signature is acceptable), contain information sufficient to indicate that it is in response to the initial Finding of Violation, and include the OFAC identification number listed on the initial Finding of Violation. The response must be sent to OFAC's Enforcement Division by mail or courier or email and must be postmarked or date-stamped in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section.                                

                                    (4)                                     *Information that should be included in response.*                                     Any response should set forth in detail why the alleged violator either believes that a violation of the regulations in this part did not occur and/or why a Finding of Violation is otherwise unwarranted under the circumstances, with reference to the General Factors Affecting Administrative Action set forth in the Guidelines contained in appendix A to part 501 of this chapter. The response should include all documentary or other evidence available to the alleged violator that supports the arguments set forth in the response. OFAC will consider all relevant materials submitted in the response.                                

                                    (c)                                     *Determination*                                    —(1)                                     *Determination that a Finding of Violation is warranted.*                                     If, after considering the response, OFAC determines that a final Finding of Violation should be issued, OFAC will issue a final Finding of Violation that will inform the violator of its decision. A final Finding of Violation shall constitute final agency action. The violator has the right to seek judicial review of that final agency action in federal district court.                                

                                    (2)                                     *Determination that a Finding of Violation is not warranted.*                                     If, after considering the response, OFAC determines a Finding of Violation is not warranted, then OFAC will inform the alleged violator of its decision not to issue a final Finding of Violation.                                

# Note 1 to paragraph (c)(2).

 A determination by OFAC that a final Finding of Violation is not warranted does not preclude OFAC from pursuing other enforcement actions consistent with the Guidelines contained in appendix A to part 501 of this chapter.

                                    (d)                                     *Representation.*                                     A representative of the alleged violator may act on behalf of the alleged violator, but any oral communication with OFAC prior to a written submission regarding the specific alleged violations contained in the initial Finding of Violation must be preceded by a written letter of representation, unless the initial Finding of Violation was served upon the alleged violator in care of the representative.                                

Lisa M. Palluconi,

Acting Director, Office of Foreign Assets Control.

[FR Doc. 2024-26127 Filed 11-12-24; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4810-AL-P