Trump Administration Lifts Biden-Era Firearm Export Restrictions Boosting US Industry

The Trump administration has reversed Biden-era restrictions on civilian firearms exports, removing rules that barred sales to 36 countries considered high-risk for weapons diversion to criminals and terrorists. This policy shift restores export regulations from Trump's first term, aiming to open previously restricted international markets and potentially generate hundreds of millions of dollars annually for U.S. gun manufacturers such as Sturm, Ruger & Co and Smith & Wesson Brands. The Biden administration had imposed the restrictions in 2024 to curb arms diversion to criminal groups, reducing export license validity and requiring additional documentation. Trump’s administration criticized these measures as onerous and a threat to Second Amendment rights, seeking to streamline licensing while maintaining essential security screenings. The move reflects Trump's consistent opposition to gun law reforms and is expected to bolster the competitiveness and growth of the U.S. firearms industry overseas. Despite lifting many restrictions, some export licenses remain required, particularly for pistols, rifles, and non-long-barrel shotguns.