United Kingdom: Export Controls & Trade & Investment Sanctions

The UK Financial Conduct Authority's May 2026 review of 150 authorized firms reveals that while sanctions compliance has improved since 2022, significant gaps persist in customer due diligence...

The UK government has introduced new sanctions targeting cryptocurrency networks and digital asset services that facilitate sanctions evasion, marking a significant expansion of its Russia sanctions regime. These measures aim to close loopholes exploited by designated persons and entities seeking to circumvent financial restrictions through crypto channels.

Geopolitical disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is exposing critical vulnerabilities in the semiconductor supply chain through an emerging helium shortage. This analysis examines how maritime chokepoint risks transmit into sectors far removed from shipping, creating hidden dependencies across global manufacturing, capital markets...

The expected stabilisation at the beginning of the year has not materialised, in some part due to the geopolitical developments that have been delivered by the USA.

Geopolitical tensions and regulatory fragmentation are forcing businesses to confront difficult decisions about restructuring their global operations. This analysis examines the critical legal, regulatory, and strategic considerations for companies contemplating carve-outs or exits from China, covering everything from regulatory approvals and technology export controls to workforce obligations and deal structuring. Using an asset-heavy manufacturing business as a case study, it outlines key issues that boar

As from 13 May 2026, exports from the United Kingdom of goods and technology not listed on the UK Strategic Control Lists to non-sanctioned third countries may require a licence.

The outbreak of war in the Middle East has delivered a series of economic and operational shocks and a stark reminder of the fragility of global supply chains.

The decision also clarifies the scope of protection offered by s.44 SAMLA, where payment is withheld in the reasonable belief of compliance with sanctions

In this weekly update, we summarise the most notable updates in the UK sanctions world.