On July 5, 2022, the United Kingdom amended the Republic of Belarus (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, imposing new trade sanctions that for the first time included a specific category of quantum computing and advanced materials goods and technology. The measures were part of a broader package designed to combat circumvention of Russia-related sanctions through Belarus.
Under the amended regulations, it became prohibited to export, supply, deliver, or make available quantum computing and advanced materials goods and technology to Belarus or to persons connected with Belarus. Related technical assistance, brokering services, financing, and financial services were also banned. Items covered by the new Schedule 2G category joined other restricted categories including dual-use, critical industry, and oil refining goods already subject to controls.
Additional trade restrictions in the same package targeted critical industry goods, mineral products, arms and related materiel, and iron and steel. Financial sanctions were also widened to cover foreign exchange reserve and asset management of the Central Bank of Belarus.