ANALYSIS OF NUCLEAR TRADE IN SUPPORT OF THE SAFEGUARDS STATE EVALUATION PROCESS

The analysis of all available, relevant information constitutes an essential part of the evaluation of the correctness and completeness of State’s declarations. In response to the proliferation risks from covert networks that trade in sensitive nuclear technology, the International Atomic Energy Agency (referred to as the Agency) has strengthened its focus on clandestine nuclear related supply and procurement. Actions include the creation of an interdisciplinary nuclear trade analysis unit whose specific task is to coordinate the analysis of all relevant information. New work procedures and software tools have also been developed to support the processing, analysis and storage of nuclear trade related data. The activities and progress of this initiative are described here, as well as its role in the State evaluation process. The process by which Member States can support the Agency by providing relevant information and expertise on a voluntary basis is also described.