ARTICLE · 02 MAY 2014

Recent Prosecution For Contravention Of Iran Sanctions

Dentons Canada LLP

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Alberta-based Lee Specialities Ltd. recently pleaded guilty to a charge of exporting controlled goods to Iran.

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Martha Harrison

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Alberta-based Lee Specialities Ltd. ("Lee") recently pleaded guilty to a charge of exporting controlled goods to Iran, in contravention of the Special Economic Measures (Iran) Regulations (the "Iran Regulations" or "Regulations") adopted under the Special Economic Measures Act ("SEMA"). This is the first time that a conviction has been obtained pursuant to SEMA.

In an agreed statement of facts filed with the Provincial Court of Alberta on April 14, 2014, Lee admitted liability under the Regulations for having attempted to ship certain controlled goods to Iran without a Ministerial permit. Pursuant to a plea bargain, Lee will pay a fine of $90,000.

This alert provides a brief overview of the facts surrounding the conviction, an overview of the sanctions, and lessons for Canadian companies.

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