Export control and dual-use items
Items that are normally used for civilian purposes but can also be used for military purposes are collectively referred to as dual-use items. If you need to export dual use items outside EU you need an authorisation. For some especially sensitive items you also need an authorisation for transfer within the EU.
The university must ensure that all handling of dual use items is carried out in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Examples of dual-use items
Examples of dual-use items (military and civilian) include
- advanced materials, chemicals, pathogens
- optical technologies, measuring instruments, protective equipment
- cyber-surveillance products, information security technologies
- software applications
- knowledge of the production and use of the items.
Keep in mind that it is an export regardless of whether the item being exported
- is sold
- is lent
- is given away
- is temporarily outside Sweden's national border.
If classified items are to be sent to countries within the EU, it is called a transfer, where no authorisation usually is required, however, the recipient must be informed of the classification of the item.
Especially sensitive items
For some items, you need an authorisation even for transfers within the EU. These are listed in Annex IV of the dual use items regulation. Annex IV includes items such as:
- explosive equipment
- hydrophones
- missile technology
- cryptography
- certain chemicals
- nuclear technology (nuclear weapons)
- stealth technology.
Classification checklist
The classification is made by the responsible researcher with the support of the employees at the institutions who have knowledge about export control. The list in Annex 1 to the EU Regulation forms the basis for the classification of dual use items.
The export control function at SU can assist in the classification and, if necessary, apply for an export authorisation from the Swedish Inspectorate for Strategic Products (ISP). A checklist is available to aid researchers in classification.
The list of dual-use items (EU)
Dual use items classification, checklist and form
Pdf, 309.8 kB.
The catch all provision
To prevent exporters from deliberately trying to circumvent the intent of the law, there is also a so-called ‘catch all’ provision. This means that if the exporter is aware that the item/technology could be used for weapons of mass destruction, it is subject to export controls even if the item is not listed.
Sanctions
Sanctions can be directed against countries, companies or individuals. In Sweden, we follow the sanctions decided by the UN, the EU and the OSCE. Typical sanction measures can be an arms embargo, financial sanctions or bans on equipment that can be used to oppress one's own population.
In some cases, the USA has its own sanctions which Sweden and the EU are not legally bound to apply, but where it may be advisable to consult the export control function at SU on how to deal with them.
Education
In two hours, the Export controls for higher institutions course will give you the knowledge you need to protect research and sensitive technologies from ending up in the wrong hands.
Export controls for higher education institutions (online course)
Support
The export control function at SU supports researchers and departments in their export role and handles the University's applications for export control licences at ISP.
The University has adopted export control rules and procedures, which are published in Rules and regulations.
Read more about export control
The EU Commission recommendation
Export control in academia (The Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control)