Background

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has issued a final rule imposing emergency import restrictions on archaeological and ethnological materials from Lebanon. Effective May 13, 2025, through Jan. 23, 2029, unless extended, the importation of these materials is restricted unless they are accompanied by documentation certifying that they left Lebanon legally and are not in violation of that country’s export laws.

The covered archaeological materials include objects made of stone, metal, ceramic, terracotta, unfired clay, faience, bone, ivory, shell, other organic material, wood, glass, plaster and stucco, textile, leather, parchment, papyrus, paper, and human remains ranging in date from the Paleolithic period (approximately 700,000 years ago) through 1774 CE. The covered ethnological materials include architectural elements; religious, ritual, and funerary objects; traditional garments and headdresses; weapons and armor; and manuscripts, handwritten documents, and early printed goods dating from 1600 through 1918 CE. More details can be found in the text of the rule.

Copyright © 2025 Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.; WorldTrade Interactive, Inc. All rights reserved.

ST&R: International Trade Law & Policy

Since 1977, we have set the standard for international trade lawyers and consultants, providing comprehensive and effective customs, import and export services to clients worldwide.

View Our Services 

Close

Cookie Consent

We have updated our Privacy Policy relating to our use of cookies on our website and the sharing of information. By continuing to use our website or subscribe to our publications, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.