Global Export Restrictions In Response To COVID-19

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many governments enacted temporary trade measures aimed at restricting the export of vital items and prioritizing the import of essential medical supplies. Restricted exports have encompassed items such as personal protection equipment, pharmaceutical products, hand sanitizer and food amongst others.

The International Trade Centre has been keeping track of the number of countries imposing export restrictions throughout the crisis and as of April 19, 88 had such measures in place. As the situation improves in some countries, measures are being changed and Germany is a notable example. It had imposed an export ban on vital medical equipment to avoid a shortage of items such as goggles and gloves but that has now been lifted.