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Information on exporting strategic goods to Burma.
An arms embargo is in force on Burma. This is an EU imposed embargo which has been implemented in UK law.
NOTE: This page outlines relevant information about the arms embargo only. See the link to other restrictions for more information about other potential sanctions.
An arms embargo is a ban on the export of "arms and related material" (ie military ammunition, weapons and goods) imposed by either the UN (United Nations), European Union (EU), Organisation on Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
The UK interprets this as covering all goods and items on the UK Military List.
Additionally some goods which are not on the UK Military List might also need an export licence. See more details about the Military End-Use Control.
Exporters can apply for an export control licence for their goods. All applications will be considered by the Government on a case by case basis in line with the provisions of the Consolidated Criteria for UK and EU Arms Exports. See more details about Licence Decision Making.
For more details about applications see the Licences page. All licence applications should be made via the SPIRE website.
Exporters can also make a rating request for clarification on whether their goods are licensable. More information is available about the Rating Enquiry Service.
In applying and using any licence, exporters should be aware of their responsibilities. More information is accessible on the Compliance and Enforcement pages.
Further information is available in the following Notices to Exporters:
Keep updated with the latest changes to Sanctions and Embargoes by Joining the ECO Mailing List.
There are no UN Security Council Resolutions on Burma.
The European Union first adopted measures including an arms embargo against Burma in 1990 which was subsequently confirmed on 29 July 1991 by the General Affairs Council and Common Position 1996/635/CFSP. This embargo covers weapons and ammunition, weapon and non-weapon platforms and ancillary equipment . Additionally it covers spare parts, repairs, maintenance and transfer of military technology. The European Union has since renewed, modified and extended the scope of the regulations. The most recent regulation now in force is Council Regulation (EC) No 194/2008.
To access copies of any relevant and latest updates to EU legislation see the:
The relevant statutory instruments implemented in UK law are:
Export Control Order 2008 (SI 2008/3231)
See more information about the Orders made under the Export Control Act.
To access copies of any UK legislation see the:
Burma is also subject to other sanctions including an assets freeze and travel ban on named individuals, suspension of certain aid and development programmes, suspension of high level bilaterateral government visits and ban on import of timber, high value metals and precious stones and ban on investment in these sectors. See further information on financial sanctions on Burma (HM Treasury website) and Burma sanctions information (FCO website).
Export Control Organisation
Updated: 6 April 2009
