Exporters, hauliers and freight forwarders warned to be vigilant with Russian sanctions

It has been reported by the Guardian that a government-issued export licence, granted to send dual-use carbon fibre manufacturing equipment to an Armenian company set up in 2024, could be being used as a military supplier in Russia.  

The manufacturer said it conducted detailed end-user checks before receiving the export licence.  

This follows specific guidance that was released at the end of 2025 by Department for Business and Trade for the freight-forwarding, shipping and logistic sector. The guidance included looking for several red flag indicators such as:  

• Vague or Misleading Descriptions and incorrect HS codes being used 

• Unusual Routing 

• Blind Shipments (hiding the identities of the supplier or final consignee)  

• Payments from third-party entities, particularly in high-risk jurisdictions. 

• Instructions to change shipping documents mid-transit 

The full guidance can be accessed here.  

How can we help?  

If you are unsure about export licences or sanctions, you can contact our team international@gmchamber.co.uk or 0161 393 4314.  

We will be holding an online training course on Managing Export Controls and Sanctions on 17^th March, 9.30am-12.30pm. Find out more and book your place here.