With the progress of technologies for telecommunication, synthetic biology, chemistry, additive manufacturing and nanoscale processes, many opportunities arise, allowing more effective and innovative production and the achievement of results with great potential both on the technical and commercial sides. At the same time however, rapid technological developments may create opportunities and vulnerabilities that can be exploited for illicit procurement activities seeking sensitive items for proliferation programmes. The strategic trade control framework should evolve with the same pace. Enforcement and traceability of intangible technology transfer controls may become much more challenging, while at the same time improved approaches to internal compliance must be developed by suppliers and technology holders.