EU Establishes New Approach to Certain End-User Certificates

The European Union published a decision to create a “set of common features” required for end-user certificates for certain defense items. The features will establish a “more uniform approach” for exports of small arms, light weapons and ammunition, the European Council said Jan. 18. The goal of the decision -- which requires certificates to include certain information on the exporter, the end-user, country of final destination and more -- is to “diminish the risk of arms diversion to illicit or unintended users.” The council said this will create a “level playing field and increase clarity for the defence industry and its clients regarding relevant requirements.”