Export Control

UK export control refers to a set of legal restrictions on the transfer of certain military and dual-use goods, technology (know-how and other technical information), software and knowledge from the UK to a destination or destinations outside of the UK. This includes physical exports, electronic transfers (such as email, file sharing, and virtual meetings), and transfers by any other means, including verbal communication. The export of controlled items can occur in a variety of activities such as academic and commercial collaborations, teaching, consultancy, licensing, conference presentations - even travelling to a third country overseas with a laptop containing controlled items. 

The aim of UK export controls is to prevent conflict, human rights abuse, weapons of mass destruction (WMD) proliferation and terrorism.  The UK export control regime is administered by the Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) and forms part of the wider national framework supporting responsible and Trusted Research enabling international collaboration while protecting national and global security.

Non-compliance with export control can result in significant financial penalties and is a serious criminal offence with custodial sentences of up to 10 years. 

All staff have an individual obligation to comply with Export Control legislation, including obtaining any necessary export licences. 

University policies

Export Control and Sanctions Policy - University of Edinburgh

UK Government guidance on export controls applying to academic research

This guidance explains how the UK's strategic export controls apply to academics, university researchers and their institutions, and when an export licence is needed.

Export controls applying to academic research guidance  - UK Government website

Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU)

ECJU is the UK government body that reviews and administers the UK's system of export controls and licensing for military and dual- use items (i.e. goods, software or technology that have both civilian and military applications).

Export Control Joint Unit  - UK Government website.

SPIRE

SPIRE Is the Export Control Organisation's (ECO) export licensing system for Open General Export Licences (OGELs).

SPIRE guidance - UK Government website.

LITE

LITE is the Export Control Joint Unit's (ECJU) export licensing system for Standard Individual Export Licences (SIELs)

LITE guidance – UK Government website. 

For further details on the export licences supplied by ECJU, please contact us or visit our ERO HUBsite:

How to apply for an export control licence - ERO HUBsite for University staff.