The export of certain goods to non-EU countries is only permitted if an export authorisation can be shown. Such goods include armaments - a term which comprises weapons and ammunition, but also other materials such as military technical equipment and accessories, protective equipment, certain vehicles, chemical substances, or computer software and engineering.

The export control list

The goods regarded as armaments within the meaning of Article 8(1) of the German Foreign Trade and Payments Ordinance (Außenwirtschaftsverordnung, AWV) are listed in Part I, Section A of the export control list (Annex 1 to the Ordinance).

Export to embargoed countries

In addition to the authorisation requirement for armaments referred to above, there is an express ban on exports to any country which is under an embargo. These countries are listed in Article 74 of the German Foreign Trade Ordinance.

Competent authority

In Germany, the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control is the competent authority for the issue of authorisations and provision of further information about the list of goods.