Export Control Organisation
This guidance is for those who export or trade in goods, software or technology (including data, information and technical assistance) which might be subject to export controls. It explains what control lists are, as well as who they apply to and when, so that exporters can make sure they comply with the law.
It is a criminal offence to export controlled items without the correct licence. Penalties vary depending on the nature of the offence.
Control lists
The most common reason for the application of export controls is that an item is on a control list.
The UK maintains a single document that is the consolidation of the internationally agreed lists of sensitive items. The consolidated list of strategic military and dual-use items that require export authorisation also includes other items relating to specific defence, security, or foreign policy concerns of the UK.
The list includes 2 categories:
- military - covering goods, software and technology that are specially designed or modified for military use
- dual-use - covering items that are available to buy commercially and are typically off the shelf but have enhanced capabilities that are useful in chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or conventional weapons
Searching the consolidated control list
It is an exporters responsibility to check whether items require an export licence. If so, you need to apply well in advance of shipment to avoid any potential issues (such as customs problems at a port).
To find out if an item is listed you can:
- check the consolidated list of strategic military and dual use items
- use the OGEL and goods checker tools
- use the control list classification service or the end-user advice service in SPIRE.
Who export controls apply to
Export controls apply to any UK-based person exporting goods, software or technology, or undertaking brokering services.
There are certain exemptions for the academic community. These balance the UKs international obligations with the need to minimise interference with legitimate academic freedoms.
Read about export controls applying to academic researchers for guidance on exemptions.
When export controls apply
You must apply for a licence from the Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) if:
- your items are on the consolidated control list
- you have concerns, or you have been informed of concerns about the intended end-use or the end-user
- your items are intended for destinations where there are current trade sanctions
End-use controls
The government has additional powers to require an export licence on items even if they are not on the consolidated control list. These are generally referred to as catch-all or end-use controls.
You need a licence to export goods, software or technology if:
- you suspect that they are intended for military use or purposes related to weapons of mass destruction (WMD)
- you are aware of government concerns
- you have been informed of the need for an export licence after getting advice from ECJU
- your goods have been seized at customs
Military end-use controls
This is when there is a risk that an item may be incorporated into military equipment, or used to produce military equipment in a destination that is subject to an arms embargo.
Got to guidance on end-use controls applying to military related items.
WMD and WMD technical assistance end-use controls
This is when there is a risk that an item may be intended or diverted for purposes connected with the development, production or use of WMD, or means of their delivery.
There are controls relating to the provision of technical assistance for any activities related to WMD. Technical assistance includes instructions, skills, training, working knowledge, consulting services and the transfer of technical data. It covers the supply, delivery, manufacture, maintenance and use of anything intended entirely or partly for WMD purposes.
The controls apply when a person is aware, or has been informed, that such an activity is intended.
Go to guidance on end-use controls applying to WMD-related items, including technical help.
Sanctions
Most restrictions on export destinations are agreed through organisations such as the UN Security Council and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). The only national sanction in operation is in respect to the export of certain military items to Argentina.
See the full list of trade sanctions, arms embargoes and other trade restrictons.
Apply for an export licence
Apply for a licence using SPIRE, the online export licensing system.
Read guidance on applying for an export licence.
Legal basis for export controls
The government regulates the trade or transit of certain sensitive goods, software and technology through export controls. The system is administered by ECJU.
These controls are based on legislation and are part of the governments commitments relating to non-proliferation and arms control.
The regulatory framework ensures that UK science and technology is not intentionally or unwittingly used for purposes of WMD by other states or non-state groups (terrorists).
Legislation making up the framework for export controls comprises the:
- Customs and Excise Management Act 1979
- Export Control Act 2002
- Export Control Order (as amended) 2008
Other legislation of relevance includes:
UN sanctions and arms embargoes are implemented by