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Arms Trade: Export Controls

Asked by Iqbal MohamedIndependentDepartment for Business and TradeTabled Answered 16 April 2026UIN 126011

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether his Department has published guidance to companies on determining whether goods fall within military export control classifications.

Answered by Chris Bryant

Yes. Even a cursory internet search will show that we publish extensive guidance on the UK’s export control regime on GOV.UK. This includes information on the regulatory framework for strategic export controls, our lists of controlled items and the circumstances where exporters might need an export licence. There is also a ‘Goods Checker’ tool which exporters can use to establish if their items are controlled.

If exporters are still in any doubt about the classification of their goods they can use the Control List Classification Service where specialists in the Export Control Joint Unit will provide a formal advisory classification against the UK control lists. Finally, an exporter should submit an application using our LITE system if they suspect an export licence may be required. We will assess the control status of the goods, and any relevant sanctions measures in place.

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