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UK Sanctions Guide for High-Value Traders

Writer: Arne MielkenArne Mielken

Ensure compliance with the latest UK financial sanctions for high-value traders. Vital guidance to assist you in understanding new reporting obligations and avoiding penalties.


A man in a suit holds cash in an ornate room filled with sculptures and paintings. A large table is covered with stacks of money.
Trader reviews financial plans amidst luxury, aligning strategies with new UK sanctions compliance to mitigate penalties.

Financial sanctions are a key tool for the UK government, shaping national security and foreign policy. These sanctions are designed to combat threats such as terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and human rights violations. For businesses engaged in high-value trading, particularly those involved in luxury goods and art markets, these sanctions can have serious compliance implications.


Since 14 May 2025, the UK has introduced new reporting requirements that will affect high-value dealers and art market participants (AMPs). As someone who’s been guiding professionals in the world of export controls and sanctions for over 20 years, I can tell you that these changes are not just regulatory hurdles – they’re crucial for ensuring the integrity of your business operations and avoiding severe penalties.


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Key Questions Covered in This Blog

  • What are the new UK financial sanctions rules for high-value traders?

  • How do these rules impact businesses dealing in luxury goods, art, and alternative investments?

  • What are the most common sanctions evasion techniques in the high-value trade sector?

  • What compliance measures should businesses implement?

  • What are the reporting obligations under the new rules?

  • What penalties apply for non-compliance?


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"Financial sanctions are not just a regulatory burden; they are a critical tool to protect global security. Compliance is not optional – it’s a necessity for all high-value traders.– Arne Mielken, Managing Director, Customs Manager Ltd

Abbreviations Used In This Blog

  • OFSI – Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation

  • HMRC – His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs

  • AMPs – Art Market Participants

  • DBT – Department for Business and Trade

  • OTSI – Office of Trade Sanctions Implementation


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New UK Financial Sanctions Rules for High-Value Traders


UK financial sanctions poster with coins, a gavel, scales, and Big Ben. Union Jack and UK in bold. Bronze tones dominate the image.
UK Financial Sanctions: Key Guidance for High-Value TradersThis image highlights the importance of understanding and complying with the latest UK financial sanctions regulations, featuring symbols of authority and justice, such as the Union Jack, scales, and a gavel.

Businesses operating in high-value sectors have reporting obligations. This includes:

  • High-Value Dealers – Businesses engaged in trading goods with cash transactions of €10,000 or more.

  • Art Market Participants (AMPs) – Firms registered with HMRC, dealing in or storing artwork valued at €10,000 or more.


These new measures are aimed at enhancing compliance and increasing awareness within sectors that are particularly vulnerable to financial crime. Whether you’re involved in the trade of luxury items or the fine art market, these changes will affect you.


Common Sanctions Evasion Techniques in High-Value Trade

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