Export Controls Short Description
TLDR An effective internal compliance programme requires more than policies – it must be part of the corporate DNA. Boardrooms and leadership teams play a critical role in fostering awareness, accountability, and proactive oversight. When employees understand the regulatory implications of IP, data, and technology transfers, compliance becomes instinctive; protecting…
TLDR Technology transfer risk has shifted from compliance teams to the boardroom. Digital collaboration, cloud storage, and cross-border R&D mean intellectual property can move across borders without physical shipments. Boardrooms must oversee access to controlled technology, enforce robust governance, and ensure that innovation, partnerships, and cloud workflows do not inadvertently…
TLDR The Export Control (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations 2025 broaden UK controls on emerging technologies, dual-use goods, and sensitive items. Enforcement is tightening, and liability increasingly touches third parties and digital operations. Boardrooms should treat export control governance as a strategic, enterprise-wide responsibility to reduce risk and maintain market access. The…
In an interconnected global economy, some of the world’s most innovative technologies can also present significant regulatory and strategic risks. Dual-use goods – products, materials, or technologies with both civilian and potential military applications – sit squarely at this intersection. From high-capacity encryption software used to secure financial transactions, to…
Overview Security Check (SC) clearance is a critical requirement for UK businesses whose employees need long-term or frequent access to classified government information. For organisations operating across borders, especially those involved in defence, cybersecurity or sensitive supply chains, understanding and complying with national security vetting is essential. This article explains…
Unpacked and explained for global firms TLDR Technology transfer and deemed export risks aren’t limited to defence or academia – they’re embedded in the everyday fabric of global R&D. From cloud access to joint ventures and third-party collaborations, unlicensed technology sharing can expose firms to major regulatory, financial, and reputational…
TLDR In April 2025, China imposed strict export controls on medium- and heavy-rare earth elements, requiring individual licences for each shipment and detailed end-use reporting. Businesses reliant on Chinese REEs now face higher compliance burdens, supply-chain disruptions, and price volatility. Early adaptation – through diversification, compliance, and scenario planning…
When compliance meets geopolitics Recently, I attended the recent Defence Export Conference held in London, an event that has been running for several years. There was a good mix of attendees from industry, regulators, and law. A number of large defence and aerospace companies from the UK, Europe and the…
Why "We Didn't Know" Won't Protect Your Business Internal export control violations can have devastating impacts on businesses, including significant fines, loss of trading privileges, and even criminal prosecution. Yet many companies still fail to implement proper compliance systems, often claiming ignorance of requirements. However, in these cases, the “we…
Making Sense of Export Controls Export compliance is a critical aspect of international trade. It encompasses the regulations, laws, and procedures businesses must follow when shipping goods, services, or technology across borders. In this article, we'll delve into the complexities of export controls, their global importance, and how businesses in…