How African Oil & Gas Firms Can Navigate UK Trade Compliance

15 Jun

A Practical Guide for Businesses Seeking to Enter or Expand in the UK Market

As global demand for energy grows, more African oil and gas firms are exploring opportunities to trade with partners in the United Kingdom. Whether you're exporting crude, refined petroleum products, or offering services across borders, navigating UK trade compliance is not optional—it’s essential for risk mitigation and long-term success.

In this post, we’ll break down the key regulatory steps African energy firms need to follow, and how expert support can make the process faster, safer, and more cost-effective.

🌍 Why the UK?

The UK remains one of the most attractive destinations for international energy trade due to its:

Robust infrastructure and financial systems
Strategic access to Europe and global shipping routes
Demand for diverse energy sources and suppliers

However, since Brexit, the UK has adopted its own customs and trade compliance regime, which is separate from the EU’s. This has created both new opportunities and complex regulations for international firms.

1. Understand UK Import & Export Regulations

To do business legally and efficiently, your firm must comply with:

UK Trade Tariffs: Know the correct commodity codes and tariff rates for oil and petroleum products.
Licensing Requirements: Certain products (e.g., crude oil) may require special licenses under UK strategic export control laws.
Sanctions Screening: The UK has its own sanctions list. Ensure your business partners and clients are not restricted.

🔍 Tip: The UK’s Integrated Online Tariff Tool can help identify classification and duty rates.

2. Get Your Contracts and Documentation in Order

Your contracts must align with UK expectations around:

Delivery terms (Incoterms®)
Dispute resolution clauses
Governing law (often UK law is preferred)

Also, ensure your documentation is airtight:

Commercial invoices
Bill of lading
Certificate of origin
Export license (where applicable)

📌 Pro tip: Use a legal advisor with experience in UK trade law to review or draft contracts that hold up under scrutiny.

3. Prepare for UK Customs Declarations

Post-Brexit, customs declarations are now required for all imports and exports between the UK and third countries.

You’ll need:

A UK Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number
A UK customs broker or agent to manage your declarations
Correct documentation to avoid costly delays or penalties

💼 Asante Group Tip: We help African firms liaise with UK customs agents and ensure compliance documentation is correct the first time.

4. Consider UK Trade Agreements and Preferential Terms

The UK has signed its own free trade agreements (FTAs) with several African countries (e.g., Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya) under the UK’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP).

These agreements may: