Imagine you’ve invented a revolutionary microchip that can power advanced drones. You’re eager to sell it worldwide, but the government steps in and says, “Not so fast—some buyers might use it for weapons.” At the same time, you’re trying to import raw materials and face steep taxes at the border. These are the everyday realities of export controls and import barriers—tools governments use to protect national security, support domestic industries, or push political agendas. In this chapter, we’ll explore how these trade restrictions work, why they often backfire, and what they mean for companies navigating the global marketplace.