EU Commission launches two new online platforms to support SMEs doing business in Iran

In an effort to assist small and medium-size enterprises ("SMEs") to comply with EU sanctions on Iran, the EU Commission has launched two new free online tools to provide guidance and tailored advice based on individual circumstances.

The two tools are:

The helpdesk features a "Sanctions Due Diligence Analysis Tool" which allows free checks on whether a potential Iranian business partner has complied with EU Sanctions and identifies any risks associated with such individuals that require more in-depth due diligence checks. The tool also provides general information about EU sanctions on Iran, and will publish further guidance as well as providing webinars, training sessions and other events.

Access the Due Diligence Helpdesk.

This is four-part online questionnaire allowing SMEs to input tailored information regarding the scope of their contemplated business projects in Iran. The tool can provide non-binding guidance as to whether these projects might fall within the scope of EU sanctions on Iran.

The four sections of the questionnaire are intended to establish the following:

1. Whether the Sanctions Tool is applicable to a specific EU economic operator interested in engaging in business with Iran;
2. Whether the EU economic operator is permitted to engage with the proposed business partner in Iran;
3. An assessment of whether the proposed activity involving Iran is compliant with EU sanctions; and
4. A summary of any applicable restrictions based on the answers given.

The Tool also provides links to a helpful Q&A and further information for EU businesses interested in dealing with Iran.

The Sanctions Tool can be accessed here.

Both tools clearly make information on compliance with EU sanctions on Iran as accessible as possible to SMEs. A note of caution, however, in that any determination provided by the Sanctions Tool and/or Due Diligence Helpdesk based on tailored information provided by SMEs is non-binding. A more thorough analysis should always be considered where there is any doubt as to the application of EU sanctions.