Check if you need a strategic export licence for some controlled goods, eg military, defence or security related goods. This also covers Dual Use goods that can be used for both civil and military purposes, eg some software.

This means items that are one of the following:

• listed on the UK Strategic Export Control Lists
• on Sanctions Lists
• fall under end-use controls

Find out if you need a strategic export control licence.

How to apply

All applications should be made via the ECO’s SPIRE export licensing system.

Fines and penalties

Breaching export controls is a criminal offence. Penalties can vary depending on the nature of the offence. They range from:

• revocation of a licence
• seizure of goods 
• issuing of compound penalty fine 
• imprisonment for up to 10 years

Check if there are embargoes or sanctions against exporting certain goods (eg military, defence or security related goods) to individual countries.

ECO helpline
Telephone: 020 7215 4594
Email: eco.help@bis.gsi.gov.uk
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