Odette Ponce is an associate in the Government Strategies and Cuba Practice Groups. She focuses on export controls, economic sanctions, foreign investment, and international trade compliance, providing clients with strategic guidance on complex U.S. and international regulatory frameworks.

Odette advises clients on compliance with regulations administered by federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) , the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) , the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) , and the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). Her work includes representing clients before these agencies, advising on enforcement risks and compliance strategies, conducting national security reviews, preparing licensing applications, and negotiating violations settlements with government authorities.

She counsels clients on evaluating and structuring business transactions to ensure compliance with U.S. sanctions and export control laws, including those involving sensitive jurisdictions and emerging markets. She is also active in counseling nonprofit organizations on compliance issues related to their activities in Cuba and other sanctioned jurisdictions.

Prior to joining Akerman, Odette gained extensive experience in international development, philanthropy, human rights, and global health. Her multidisciplinary background and deep understanding of the intersection of international law, global politics, and trade enable her to deliver comprehensive, strategic counseling to clients navigating the complexities of cross-border transactions.