Global Regulations by Country

Japan

Japan’s Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act, widely referred to as “The Forex Act,” implements Japanese import and export controls (among other things). Revisions to Forex were green-lighted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in October of 2019.

Israel

In October of 2019, the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs agreed that it would establish an advisory committee, led by the Finance Ministry, to evaluate national security aspects of foreign investments. Details on the regime have not been disclosed, but will be posted here ASAP.

Germany

Section 55 of the German Foreign Trade and Payments Ordinance enables the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy to investigate whether the acquisition of a domestic company by a foreign entity poses a threat to public order or national security.

France

The country’s “Action Plan for Business Growth,” known as PACTE, includes a procedure that strengthens and expands authorization of foreign investment in order to better protect strategic sectors.

European Union

A new EU framework for the screening of foreign direct investments in the EU will apply starting Oct. 2020. Member states are required to notify the EU Commission about their national investment screening mechanisms.

China

Includes details on the Foreign Investment Law, which becomes effective on January 1, 2020. While intended to streamline foreign investment into China, the law includes provisions for protecting national security.

United States

Includes details on the Committee for Foreign Investment in the United States, widely known as CFIUS, as well as the Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act of 2018 (FIRRMA). Includes details on filing, trends, and more.

Australia

The Treasurer of Australia, in coordination with the Foreign Investment Review Board, can approve or deny a foreign investment application based on the impact on national security. Details inside.

United Kingdom

Sections 42 and 58 of the British Enterprise Act of 2002 enables the Secretary of State to intervene with mergers or other activities in the interests of national security.