When exporting goods that require a licence, an end-user statement is often requested. Many companies treat it as a formality that the customer simply signs. In practice the document is valuable, but only when it is assessed critically — a signature alone is no guarantee against misuse.
What is an end-user statement?
An end-user statement (also called an end-use certificate) is a declaration by the end user confirming who will actually use the goods, for what purpose and where. The document is often requested by the competent national authority as part of an export licence application for dual-use or military goods, and serves to substantiate that the end use gives no cause for concern.
A complete end-user statement usually contains:
- the identity and contact details of the end user;
- a description of the goods;
- the intended end use;
- a declaration that the goods will not be resold, re-exported or used for another purpose without permission;
- signature by an authorised representative of the end user.
What an end-user statement does and does not demonstrate
A signed end-user statement demonstrates that the end user has made a declaration. It does not automatically demonstrate that this declaration is correct, or that the goods will not be diverted after delivery. The document is a starting point for assessment, not an end point.
A careful assessment therefore goes beyond the mere presence of the document:
- Does the identity of the signatory match the actual end user, and are they authorised to represent the organisation?
- Is the intended end use plausible given the end user's profile and activities?
- Are there signals that contradict the statement, such as an unusual destination, intermediary or delivery route?
- Is the end user itself subject to sanctions or otherwise an elevated risk?
When is an end-user statement requested?
Competent authorities usually request an end-user statement for licence applications concerning dual-use goods, military equipment, or when an earlier assessment gives reason to do so. Even without a formal requirement, an exporter can choose to request an end-user statement as part of careful customer research.
Example from practice
An exporter receives a correctly completed and signed end-user statement from a foreign buyer. On closer assessment, the company at the end user's address turns out to be a small office building without production facilities — while the stated end use assumes large-scale industrial processing. The document itself gave no reason for doubt, but additional research into the end user did.
Frequently asked questions
Is an end-user statement always mandatory?
Not always, but for licensable exports of dual-use or military goods, the competent authority often requests the document as part of the application.
Is an end-user statement enough to meet my duty of care?
No. The document is one source of information within a broader assessment of the end user and the end use, not a replacement for it.
What if the end user refuses to sign an end-user statement?
This may in itself be a signal that calls for closer assessment, especially for licensable goods for which the document is customary.
TradeRisk helps companies assess end-user statements and carry out end-user research within Defence & Strategic Trade. Also read more about what end-user screening involves and 10 red flags for international end users.