Title: Temporary Export Licences for Dual-Use Items: Exhibitions and Demonstrations in the UK

When your business relies on showing advanced or sensitive equipment at exhibitions, demonstrations, or trade shows, you may face questions about export controls and licences. In the UK, dual-use items—goods that have both civilian and potential military applications—are subject to regulatory controls. If these items are temporarily imported into the UK for an exhibition or demonstration, there are recognised routes that may allow their export afterwards under a licence. This post provides a clear, professional overview of how the licence framework works and what you need to know to stay compliant.

What counts as a dual-use item?
– Dual-use items include hardware, software, and related technologies that could have legitimate civilian purposes but may also be repurposed for more sensitive ends.
– Examples commonly encountered at exhibitions include encryption equipment, certain optical or sensing devices, specialised materials, and related components.
– Classification is important: ensure you have up-to-date, approved classifications and end-use information for each item.

What is meant by temporary import for exhibitions?
– Temporary importation for exhibitions or demonstrations refers to bringing items into the UK for a short period and then returning them abroad or exporting them to another country after the event.
– In practice, firms may use temporary admission arrangements to avoid permanent importation duties, provided the items are re-exported or returned in accordance with the agreed terms.
– Even with temporary import status, dual-use items must be handled in compliance with export control rules when ultimately exported from the UK.

The licence route for exporting dual-use items after a temporary import
– The UK’s export controls are administered by the Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) within BEIS. Licences are required for many dual-use items, depending on the item, destination, end-user, and end-use.
– There are licensing routes that cover the temporary export of dual-use goods after they have been temporarily imported for an exhibition or demonstration. These routes can include general licences (where applicable) and specific licences, depending on the item and destination.
– It is essential to determine whether your items fall under a general licence (OGEL or similar) or require a specific licence. Many exhibitions use a combination of licensing options, but all involve a formal assessment to ensure end-use and end-user compliance.
– Licences are destination- and end-use-specific. Even if items were allowed into the UK temporarily for display, exporting them later to another country requires ensuring the licence matches the intended end-use and end-user abroad.

Key considerations before applying
– Determine classification: Confirm whether each item is a controlled dual-use item and obtain accurate classification codes and end-use statements.
– Identify destination and end-user: Have a clear understanding of where the items will be exported to after the exhibition and who will use them.
– Assess end-use restrictions: Some destinations, end-users, or end-uses may be prohibited or require additional controls.
– Plan timing: Licence applications can take time. Start discussions with the ECJU well in advance of the exhibition to avoid delays.
– Documentation: Prepare detailed information about the items, including technical specifications, quantities, values, and the temporary import arrangement in the UK.

Applying for the licence
– Begin with a feasibility check: Do you qualify for a general licence, or must you apply for a specific licence? If your items or destination fall outside general permissions, a specific licence will be required.
– Gather supporting information: Item descriptions, HS classifications, country of destination, end-user details, purpose of export, and the planned timeline for temporary import and subsequent export.
– Submit the licence application: Use the official channels provided by BEIS/ECJU. Provide accurate, verifiable information and maintain copies of all correspondence.
– Respond to requests for supplementary information: Be prepared to supply additional technical data or justification of end-use if asked by the licensing authority.
– Await the decision: Processing times vary; it is prudent to apply early and plan for potential delays.

Compliance and record-keeping
– Keep a clear audit trail: Maintain copies of licences, correspondence, item classifications, and end-use statements.
– Monitor end-use and end-user: Ensure that the items are used only for the permitted purpose and by the authorised individuals or organisations.
– Re-exports and return shipments: If items are brought into the UK temporarily and later exported, ensure the export complies with the licence terms and any reconciliation requirements.
– Retain documentation for the statutory period: Be aware of the record-keeping requirements and keep documents available for inspection if required.

Practical tips for exhibitors and organisers
– Engage early with BEIS/ECJU and your freight forwarder or customs broker. They can help interpret the regulatory requirements and timeline.
– Prepare item-by-item classifications and end-use declarations to reduce back-and-forth with the licensing authority.
– Coordinate with the exhibition organisers and international partners about destinations and shipment schedules to align with licence validity periods.
– Consider using a dedicated licence or OGEL where appropriate to streamline future events of a similar type.
– Build contingency plans for potential licence delays or changes in end-use conditions.

A brief example
– A UK company plans to exhibit encryption hardware at an international trade show. The devices are dual-use and will be temporarily imported into the UK for the show and then exported to a specified country after the event. The company assesses the item classifications, identifies the destination and end-users, and applies for a licence covering the temporary import-to-export sequence. With supporting information and a valid licence, the equipment can be displayed during the event and subsequently exported under compliant terms.

Conclusion
Licensing for the temporary import and subsequent export of dual-use items used in exhibitions or demonstrations is a practical pathway that enables global showcasing while safeguarding national and international security interests. By classifying items correctly, engaging early with the licensing authority, and maintaining thorough compliance and record-keeping, organisations can minimise risk and ensure that their participation in events abroad proceeds smoothly. For the most accurate, up-to-date guidance, consult the BEIS/ECJU guidance and consider obtaining tailored support from a licensed customs or export compliance professional.

January 22, 2026 at 10:57AM
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