Export licences and certificates

You need to get a licence or certificate to export some types of goods from the UK.

Animals, plants, food and agricultural products

• live animals, semen and embryos under the Balai Directive
• fish for human consumption
• endangered plant and animal species, and products made from them
• wood packaging
• timber

Chemicals and waste

• ozone-depleting substances and fluorinated gas (F-gas)
• nuclear-related items
• waste

Controlled goods

• controlled goods – these include military items, dual-use items (items with both civil and military uses), firearms, and items that can be used for torture or capital punishment

Cultural goods

• cultural goods

Diamonds

• diamonds

Sanctions

There are different types of sanctions for trade, transport, finance and immigration.

Check if the goods you’re exporting will be controlled by UK sanctions.

You may also not be allowed to export your goods to someone who is subject to financial sanctions.

First published 16 July 2020