When policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, researchers and our Compliance Manager, Anders Evensen, gathered in November 2025 for the EU Export Control Forum, one message stood out clearly: Export controls have become a core instrument of Europe’s economic and security policy.
The forum was opened by Commisioner Šefčovič, who highlighted the role of Export Controls as part of EU strategy and security. (Full speech can be found here).
“Export controls are a key part of our economic security toolbox, including when it comes to international peace and security and the protection of human rights.”
At CONFIDEE we believe that Export control is not to be seen as a technical topic for specialists, but as a strategic responsibility for governments and companies alike.
A cohesive and coherent joint approach to economic security
Continuous modernisation of the legal frameworks is necessary to protect vital technology. The existing multilateral regimes (such as Wassenaar) have been challenged recently, which has led to the EU expanding controls on its own. The Commissioner spoke about the EU economic security ‘doctrine’, which is purported to be finalised late 2025. Alignment between member countries is necessary, as differences in legislation are exploitable.
“Over the past few years, it has become clear that we need a cohesive and coherent joint approach to economic security.
Because those who seek to abuse the system are always looking for a weak spot in application, which in turn harms the whole EU”, Šefčovič.
The reconciliation of these requirements represents significant challenges to the EU, its member states, and the businesses that operate within them. While interests generally align, it’s difficult to find solutions that are effective in both development and implementation.
Risking a cycle of catch-up
Industry representatives mentioned the need for clear and practical legislation. There are significant challenges arising from increased complexity and fast-paced implementation of new controls and methods of control. Many, experience compliance as repeatedly “putting out fires”, with little opportunity for developing proper long-term solutions.
“From a compliance perspective, we risk a cycle of catch-up”, says Rosa Rosanelli of Patria and Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe, who extended an invitation to regulators, industry, and everyone in the export control community to work together through open and constructive dialogue.
“After all, what matters most are the actual, practical consequences in the supply chain.” says Evensen.
In highly regulated industries such as defence and aerospace, even a seemingly small oversight like a missing export licence can stop an entire programme.
Building resilient systems and solid competence
Building resilient systems and solid competence within businesses is necessary to meet the complex requirements of export controls.
“We have to embed compliance directly into our processes, from supplier vetting and traceability to secure data handling and documentation control. To be successful, compliance needs to be a foundation, not just an emergency response vehicle ”, says Anders Evensen, Compliance Manager.
