Government proposes amendments to Act on the Export Control of Dual-Use Items

On 5 November, the Finnish Government submitted a proposal to Parliament to update the legislation governing the export control of dual-use items. The proposal aims to remove overlaps with the EU Dual-Use Regulation and improve the effectiveness of export control measures.

The primary aim of the government proposal is to remove national regulation to the extent that it overlaps with EU-level controls. In addition, the proposal includes technical amendments to the obligations concerning reporting and general export authorisations. These amendments would clarify the requirements for the export of dual-use items and reduce the administrative burden. At the same time, the Government proposes adding two new entries to the national control list, covering drones classified as dual-use items and features related to their navigation and thermal detection capabilities.

The proposal would also introduce a new provision limiting the scope of the Act. This limitation would apply to situations where, for example, the forces of a NATO member state bring to Finland materiel containing items classified as dual-use items whose export outside the EU would otherwise require authorisation.

The proposal is expected to improve the effectiveness of Finland's export control measures, support the EU's economic security objectives and strengthen controls on technology relevant to national security. The overall impact of the changes on businesses is estimated to be minor.

The Act is scheduled to enter into force at the beginning of 2027.