GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Dual-Use Export Control

When an exporter intends to ship goods or technologies with both civilian and military applications, dual-use export controls immediately apply.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 22 November 2025

Source: https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/business/export-procedures-and-licences/dual-use-export-controls_en

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Definition & Explanation

When an exporter intends to ship goods or technologies with both civilian and military applications, dual-use export controls immediately apply. The category covers items such as high-performance processors, encryption software, precision instruments, and certain chemicals – products with legitimate commercial uses that could equally serve defence or security-sensitive purposes. Before authorising shipment, authorities apply a three-part check: destination country, intended end-use, and the identity of the end-user. This triple assessment is consistently underestimated by exporters until a licence refusal or enforcement action makes it visible. Freight forwarders and customs agents must classify dual-use items against the relevant control list entries and, where required, secure an export licence before goods leave the country. The EU Dual-Use Regulation provides the core legal framework within Europe; at the international level, arrangements such as the Wassenaar Arrangement coordinate export control policies among participating states.

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Dual-Use Export Control

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