If you export from the UK you need to understand export controls. Your goods may be subject to export controls – requiring licences and permissions – depending on the destination, product, services and technical know-how involved.
Even if you are based in the UK, if your technology includes US components you could be subject to US export controls as well as UK regulations.
clearBorder provides expert advice on export compliance to ensure your operations run smoothly and protect your international reputation. Download our free introductory guide.
Export controls regulate the destination and end-use of sensitive technologies.
They are designed to prevent technology falling into hostile hands, to preserve national artefacts or protect endangered species.
In the UK, the Department for Business and Trade manages export controls.
You must ensure your own compliance with export controls. Breaches of these regulations can result in serious penalties, suspension of operations and even imprisonment.
Goods, technologies and services deemed subject to export controls are put on a list (UK Strategic Export Controls Lists).
Exporters must apply for a licence to export a product on these lists from the Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU).
Exporters must comply with the conditions attached to the license, for example in relation to sanctioned entities or the ‘end-use’ of technology.
Export control applications can be complex. clearBorder can support you with expert advice to prepare exports, during the process or to maintain your compliance afterwards.
clearBorder’s specialist team provides independent, accessible, bespoke support to ensure your business complies with export controls.
Breaching export controls is a criminal offence. The government takes non-compliance extremely seriously; you may have licences revoked or goods seized. You could also be issued a compound penalty fine, or even face imprisonment. But with clearBorder’s expert support, you can ensure your compliance and steer clear of penalties.
Perhaps you export items to countries deemed a potential security risk, such as China, Russia or Iran. You may trade emerging technologies with overseas entities, and need to guarantee end-user compliance. Whatever the nature of your cross-border operations, clearBorder has the expertise to help.
While the ECJU endeavours to issue most licences within 20 working days, it’s not unusual for applications to become bogged-down in complex processes. This causes inefficiency, expense and delay – but with our help, you can get ahead of the application process and make sure you obtain the necessary licenses in time.
Export controls and controlled goods lists are constantly changing. To remain compliant you need to stay abreast of changes to sanction lists, controlled items and updated regulations. clearBorder will do this for you, so you can concentrate on growing your business.
UK businesses also can be subject to US export controls.
In addition to the UK’s Export Controls Joint Unit (ECJU) and UK Strategic Export Controls Lists, you may need to understand regulations in the United States.
The US operate EAR (Export Administration Regulations) and ITAR (International Traffic in Arms) regulations.
ITAR regulates the movement of defence-related items.
EAR oversees ‘dual-use’ products not included in ITAR legislation – civilian products which may have defence uses.
Crucially, US legislation applies to US technology outside of US territory. So, if you use US made components or know-how in your manufacturing, you could be subject to US regulation.
clearBorder training enables you to skill your personnel with the knowledge to ensure export compliance and avoid unforeseen mistakes. We provide on-hand advice to assist you before, during and after your export operations.
Goods, software, technical information or services may be subject to controls and require export licences:
Contact us now to find out if your operations deal with controlled goods, or if you require specific licensing.
Export control licenses contain conditions requiring the exporter to regulate what, where and to whom they export. These requirements might cover:
Some exceptions do apply, for example:
For more tailored information and bespoke guidance, get in touch with the clearBorder team today.
Importantly, non-compliance doesn’t necessarily entail intentional wrongdoing. You can easily fall foul of export controls without proper expertise and support on your side.
That’s where clearBorder can help.
Our trading expertise goes beyond export controls compliance. Explore our insights and resources hub for more accurate and practical cross-border trade guidance.
