Export Control Services
This is not an exhaustive list. There is no ‘one size fits all’ with export controls. What best suits one company, its culture and methods of operating will not be appropriate for another, especially as export controls are, by their very nature, ever changing and dynamic. Our whole approach therefore is very much of tailoring advice and services to the specific needs.
Analysis of impact of export controls
At operational & strategic levels. It is ever more important to determine at the outset if an opportunity is going to be affected by the controls and if so, how the necessary licences and compliance is to be achieved. Undertaking this activity retrospectively can be disruptive, expensive and potentially involve disclosures to the regulatory authorities such as HMRC.
Identification of controlled goods, technology & activities
The essential first step in any situation involving export business, yet the one many overlook or, don’t do properly. And ‘over controlling’ can be seen by the compliance and customs authorities as an indication of poor practice and compliance.
Licence selection
Including wide range of readily available Open General Licences (OGELs). Deciding early on how to licence exports can make a fundamental difference to performance and meeting contractual commitments, avoiding delays, additional costs and even damages claims. Increasingly overseas customers and suppliers are expecting to see clear evidence of the correct export licences being in place.
Applying for licences
Navigating the UK export licence application system (SPIRE) can be daunting to the inexperienced and like any such process, it takes time to get it right. We can advise how best to present applications, both in relation to Standard Individual Export Licences (SIELs) and the more flexible, bespoke Open Individual Export Licences (OIELs).
Internal processes and procedures
Whether as part of a formal QA system or as Work Instructions, we can advise on and also write the documents necessary to achieve compliance. And as the compliance function generally, not just in relation to export controls, moves increasingly towards self-regulation, it is important to be able to demonstrate that, appropriate internal audit measures are in place.
Senior management briefing and staff training
From the strategic overview to group training and individual mentoring, we can provide tailored content and deliver the necessary sessions. And doing this on site, rather than at a formal training event, can bring considerable advantages – not just in terms of cost but also, access to key personnel.
Handling problems and voluntary disclosures
Frequently export controls come to the fore when a specific problem occurs, perhaps as a result of a visit from the Export Control Organisation’s Compliance Unit or when an export is rejected by HMRC. Our experience enables us to advise on resolution and methods of minimising the impact going forwards.
On-going support and provision of a helpline
Even those companies achieving a high degree of autonomy in export controls can benefit from having an independent adviser to call upon, such are the complexities of the subject. And for the SMEs (small and medium enterprises) it can be impractical to have a full time resource dedicated to the function. We can fill such a gap – on a cost effective basis.