UK sanctions on Russia: import/export restrictions for traders
The UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has published updated guidance on sanctions compliance for UK persons trading with Russia. The guidance covers what import and export restrictions apply to UK businesses and individuals under current UK sanctions regimes. Shippers and exporters must review their compliance obligations to avoid penalties when moving goods to or from Russia.
Photo: Michael Petersen / Pexels# UK Sanctions on Russia: What Shippers Need to Know
The UK Department for Business and Trade has published comprehensive guidance on trading under sanctions with Russia, effective as of April 2026. UK persons—including businesses and natural persons—must comply with import and export restrictions when conducting any trade involving Russia.
Who Must Comply
The restrictions apply broadly to all UK persons. This includes UK-registered companies, sole traders, partnerships, and individual citizens. Even indirect involvement in trade with Russia—such as freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers—may trigger compliance obligations.
Import and Export Restrictions
The guidance addresses both directions of trade:
- Exports to Russia: UK persons are restricted from exporting certain categories of goods to Russia. The scope varies depending on the commodity, its end-use, and the ultimate destination within Russia.
- Imports from Russia: UK persons face restrictions on importing Russian-origin goods and goods subject to trade-with-Russia sanctions rules.
The DBT guidance does not specify which HS chapters or product categories are most heavily restricted in the published summary, so shippers must consult the full guidance and consolidated UK sanctions legislation for detailed commodity lists.
Compliance Obligations
UK traders must:
- Verify that transactions do not breach UK sanctions regulations before proceeding.
- Maintain due diligence on counterparties and beneficiaries.
- Report suspected breaches to the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI).
- Keep records demonstrating compliance.
Failure to comply can result in civil and criminal penalties, including substantial fines and imprisonment.
Scope of Guidance
This guidance covers the regulatory framework as it stands. Sanctions designations and restricted goods lists are subject to change. Traders should monitor updates from DBT and OFSI regularly, as new designations or restrictions may be announced with short notice.
What this means for shippers
Shippers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers must build Russia sanctions screening into their compliance workflows. Before accepting any shipment with a Russian origin, destination, or beneficiary, verify it against current UK sanctions lists and consult the sanctions guidance to understand your obligations. Failure to screen can expose your business to regulatory action.
