High tech trade association techUK has begun a review of the enforcement of the regulations regarding export licences, and export controls in particular. The review will look at whether these regulations have a negative impact to the UK electronics, systems, assemblies or components supply chains – either as an unnecessary cost to business, or loss of potential exports.
The review will conclude with a presentation of evidence and finding to Government Ministers Matthew Hancock and Oliver Letwin in early December, with a view to improving the regulatory environment for the sector.
A number of issues have already been identified by the sector; in particular, how the current export control regime operates for the classification of products in the UK compared to other EU countries. A further issue is the current application process for an Open General Export Licence and the advice given by support organisations.
Initial evidence indicates that misclassification regarding dual use is costing the UK electronics supply chain lost export revenues and the process to obtain export licences is too slow to meet customer lead times. Meanwhile, advice and guidance on the subject is sometimes unclear and contradictory.
If you would like to contribute to the review, email Ken Ball, electronics manufacturing & design manager
or complete the online form at the URL shown below.
Author
Graham Pitcher
Source: www.newelectronics.co.uk