Navigating the Evolving Sanctions Landscape

The JCC Legal & Tax Chapter Webinar, “Current Sanctions Landscape & Outlook for the 20th EU Sanctions Package: Countermeasures and Compliance Strategies” on March 24 offered valuable insights from Laurence Ponty (Head of JCC Legal & Tax Chapter, Partner at Archipel Law) and Andreas Bitzi (Co-CEO, JCC).

Here are the key takeaways:
📌 State of play (16th–19th packages): The EU’s 2025 sanctions packages have expanded in scope and complexity, aiming to close loopholes and strengthen enforcement. Their effectiveness continues to depend heavily on coordination with the US and Switzerland.
📌 Looking ahead to the 20th package: Discussions highlighted uncertain timing, political sensitivities, and potential interim measures. Further tightening of restrictions and alignment with international partners are expected.
📌 Macroeconomic context & business sentiment: Ongoing geopolitical tensions — including developments involving Iran and shifts in US measures — are shaping market responses and corporate strategies.
📌 Countermeasures & business impact: Companies are increasingly adapting to retaliatory measures, with tangible operational and financial implications across sectors.
📌 Enforcement trends: Authorities are focusing on transaction bans, the criminalisation of sanctions violations and circumvention, and expanding extraterritorial reach — alongside “best efforts” obligations involving third-party operators.
📌 Compliance in practice: The session closed with practical guidance for companies and financial institutions navigating this fast-evolving regulatory environment.

The webinar was a clear reminder that staying ahead of sanctions developments is essential for informed decision-making and resilient business operations.