Many companies use Open General Licences (OGLs or OGELs). It is
not unusual for companies to make several hundred times more exports under OGLs than under Standard Individual Export
Licences (SIELs).
This is a very significant reduction in the administrative burden borne by
these companies BUT it is contingent upon compliance with the conditions of the licences. The Department for Business Innovation and Skills (UKBIS) has now taken the legal
power to suspend or revoke OGLs where companies are found not to be in compliance. This move has received the support
of many in industry, as well as the Government and many NGOs. Why should some companies carry an overhead for compliance,
whilst others enjoy the same privilege at no cost? This is not a level playing field.
It is now more important than ever that companies wishing to use, or continue
to use, OGLs understand their obligations and have effective compliance systems in place. Suspension or revocation
of OGLs would significantly increase companies dependence on SIELs, with the additional administrative burden this implies.
Contact us now for a review of your compliance systems and procedures.
