Introduction to Export Controls: The Basics Every Business Needs to Know

Introduction

Export controls govern what goods, software, and technologycan be sent abroad — and to whom. They are a critical but often misunderstoodarea of compliance, affecting manufacturers, technology companies,universities, logistics providers, and financial institutions alike. Thiscourse provides a clear and practical introduction to export controls,demystifying the regulatory landscape and explaining what businesses need toknow before they can ship, transfer, or share controlled items internationally.No prior knowledge is assumed.

Who ThisCourse Is For

This course is suitable for anyone who is new to exportcontrols, including sales, operations, procurement, and logistics staff, aswell as legal and compliance professionals seeking a foundational overview. Itis particularly relevant to businesses that manufacture, distribute, or financethe movement of goods and technology across borders.

WhatYou'll Learn

•      What export controls are and why they exist

•      The main export control regimes: US EAR, ITAR, EUDual-Use Regulation, and UK Export Control Order

•      How goods and technology are classified under controllists

•      Key concepts: jurisdiction, classification, end-use,and end-user

•      When a licence is required and how to apply for one

•      The consequences of non-compliance, including criminalpenalties

CourseStructure

Format: Live onlinesession with Q&A, also available as on-demand recording

Duration: 1 hour

Level: Beginner

Assessment: Noformal assessment — attendance certificate issued on completion

Technical Requirements

This course is compatible with most operating systems andmodern web browsers. Live sessions are delivered via video conferencing.On-demand recordings are accessible via the course platform. A stable internetconnection is recommended. If you experience access issues, please contact yourorganisation's IT department or the course provider.

‍Course Content

1. What Are Export Controls?

•      Definition and purpose of export controls

•      The distinction between export controls and sanctions

•      Why export controls exist: national security,non-proliferation, foreign policy

•      The international framework: multilateral exportcontrol regimes (Wassenaar, NSG, MTCR, AG)

2. Key Export Control Regimes

•      US Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and theCommerce Control List

•      US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)

•      EU Dual-Use Regulation: structure and scope

•      UK Export Control Order 2008 and Strategic ExportLicensing

•      How the regimes interact and overlap

3. Classification and theControl Lists

•      What makes a product 'controlled'?

•      How to read and use control lists

•      Dual-use goods: civilian products with militaryapplications

•      Military and defence goods: stricter controls

•      Software, technology, and intangible transfers

4. Licences and Authorisations

•      When a licence is required

•      Types of licence: open general, standard individual,and global

•      End-use and end-user considerations

•      Red flags: how to spot problematic transactions

5. Compliance and Consequences

•      Penalties for export control violations: fines,debarment, and imprisonment

•      Case example: a real-world enforcement action

•      Building basic export control awareness in yourorganisation

•      Next steps and further resources

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