Do I need an export licence from Austria to sell dual-use sensors to Turkey?

Thank you for consulting us regarding your upcoming shipment. Because you are dealing with industrial sensors—which are frequently classified as "dual-use" items (usable for both civilian and military purposes)—this requires careful adherence to EU Regulation 2021/821 and Austrian export laws.

Here is the breakdown of the regulations, risks, and necessary documentation you asked about:

1. Do EU Export Rules Apply?

Yes. Even though Turkey and the EU share a Customs Union, dual-use goods are excluded from the free movement of goods.

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  If your sensors are listed in Annex I of the EU Dual-Use Regulation, you legally must obtain an export license from the Austrian authority (BMAW) before shipping.

  
  


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  Even if they are not listed, "Catch-All" clauses may apply if there is any suspicion the items are intended for military end-use.

  
  

2. What are the Risks of Non-Compliance?

Shipping without the correct license is a serious offense. The risks include:

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  Customs Seizure: The shipment will be blocked at the Austrian or Turkish border.

  
  


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  Legal Penalties: In Austria, violations of the Foreign Trade Act (Außenwirtschaftsgesetz) can lead to severe fines and even criminal liability (prison sentences) for the managing directors.

  
  


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  Blacklisting: Your company could be placed on a "Denied Parties" list, preventing you from trading internationally in the future.

  
  

3. Required Documents

To apply for the license and clear customs safely, you will immediately need:

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  End-User Certificate (EUC): A formal document signed by the Turkish buyer stating clearly what the sensors will be used for and confirming they will not be diverted to military use.

  
  


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  Technical Data Sheets: To determine the correct Export Control Classification Number (ECCN).

  
  


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  Company Profile: Details on the Turkish buyer to screen against sanctions lists.

  
  

Next Steps

Given the complexity of dual-use classification and the severity of the penalties, we need to review the technical specifications of your sensors immediately to determine the correct license path.