Types of Export

An export refers to the transfer of physical goods, software or technology from the university to a person or entity outside the UK. This can occur in various formats and under different circumstances, not all of which are immediately obvious. These transfers may fall under the export control legislation depending on the nature of the items themselves and the destination where they will be used (end-use/end-user). 

Understanding what qualifies as an export is essential and it can take many forms:

1. Physical: Shipment, hand-carrying items abroad

Physical Goods such as: Lab equipment, research samples, prototypes or components, printed materials amongst others. These are typically transported across borders either by yourself or via a courier company. 

2. Third-Party Platforms: uploading technology or software to repositories, collaborative tool

Software  such as: Custom-developed code, commercial software with or without encryption, open-source tools with restricted modules amongst others. Exporting software may involve sending files electronically or providing access via cloud platforms. 

3. Electronic: Technology and software transferred via Email, cloud storage, file sharing, remote access

4. Visual/Oral: Technology transferred during presentations, lectures, demonstrations

“Technology” can be exported via either electronic means or visual/orally. The definition of “technology” in the export legislation includes:  

Data and information could include research datasets, technical specifications, unpublished findings, sensitive or proprietary information, drafts of manuscripts etc. Technology also includes Know-how such as instructions for manufacturing or for use, design blueprints, experimental methods, training or consultancy. Even verbal or visual disclosures (e.g., presentations, webinars) will constitute an export if the recipient is attending the presentation from outside of the UK. Other forms of transferring technology includes placing data in third-party repositories or sharing via email, cloud storage, or collaboration platforms. 

Transfer of technology takes place as part of Academic teaching and research collaborations, or when licencing IP: 

Academic Teaching and Research Collaborations 

Exports of technology within academic teaching or research collaborations take place while:  

• Delivering lectures or seminars to international audiences  

• Supervising international students, that report back to their international home institutions. 

• Participating in joint research projects with overseas institutions 

Transnational Education (TNE) 

Exports of technology in the context of TNE take place when 

• Delivering online course content to students overseas 

• Sharing course materials 

Licensing and IP Transfers 

This includes licensing software or intellectual property to overseas entities, or individuals. The transfer of these items is considered an export. 

5. Technical Assistance 

Technical assistance includes providing services such as: Consulting , training, teaching or providing guidance or support or expertise in a specific field as well as troubleshooting. All of these activities could take place in person or virtually. Technical assistance can involve the sharing of technology. 

Need Help? 

If you're unsure whether something constitutes an export or requires approval, please submit an online form for guidance.