New export licensing control system opens to the public

The government’s new export licensing system, Licensing for International Trade (LITE), is now open to the public.

Previously, LITE had been in private testing and only available for a select number of invited traders, as the Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) looks to move away from the old SPIRE application.

From today onwards (17 September), the new system can be used to apply for Standard Individual Export Licences (SIEL). A SIEL allows a trader to export certain controlled goods abroad.

The initial decision had been announced 9 August, following the completion of the private beta test.

Benefits of LITE

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) said that LITE would bring an “intuitive user interface”, faster processing of export licence applications and “better signposting to helpful advice”.

Andy Bridges, a customs and trade expert at the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, said:

“Compared to its predecessor, it was designed to be more modern and user-friendly. During beta testing, some companies expressed much how fresher and easier the system is to use, even for those who aren’t entirely familiar with export controls.”

“The first aspect of the phased changes will be the movement of SIEL applications to LITE, with more moves expected later.

“The ECJU and DBT both very much see LITE as the future for licence control applications, so it will likely be an evolving software tool and something that all traders should keep an eye on.”

With a few exceptions, any exporter can now register on LITE using the SIEL registration link here.

The ECJU says that if a trader is already using LITE as a member of the private beta, they can access LITE via the new link or any saved links.

Exceptions apply

Some exceptions remain, which apply to certain exporters or types of SIEL applications.

The ECJU advises that, where an exception applies, a trader should apply for a SIEL on SPIRE.

Information about these exceptions can be found on gov.uk SIEL guidance and on the start page for the service. The government says that pages will be kept updated as LITE continues to be developed.

“Our intention is to transition all SIEL applications off SPIRE in the coming months,” said the ECJU in the announcement.

“We will inform you on updates on how to make to these specific types of applications via our Notices to Exporters.”