UK Export License – what goods need one and how to apply

Export Licensing

Goods that are listed in the UK Strategic Export Control Lists require an export license to be obtained prior to exportation.  The controls may be in place for certain countries, regions or be for the type of goods (e.g. military weapons).

The lists cover products, software and technology.  It is the exporters responsibility to check the status of its goods to ensure that a rating is known prior to export. 

Due to the current situation in the Ukraine, this has highlighted the importance of companies being proactive in establishing the license status of their products.  Failure to have the correct license in place could result in severe penalties or even criminal proceedings.

This applies even if products are being exported to the EU, so this may not have been a consideration for UK businesses prior to Brexit and may have been missed.

If an exporter is not sure its products require an export license, then our team can assist them with establishing the rating and any applications for an individual license.  This would be via referencing to the Control Lists and contact with the Export Control Organisation (ECO). This may require registration for the ECO’s licensing system, SPIRE

The UK Consolidated List of Strategic Military and Dual-Use Items that Require Export Authorisation provides the consolidated listing which can be used to identify if your products fall under one of the licencing regulations.

For example:

Get in touch

The regulations and the lists are very complex, so if you suspect that your client may need to check the rating of its products, then get in touch with our Customs Team who will be able to advise you on the best course of action.