Image: Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant (CC BY 3.0 UK Parliament)
The online portal is hoped to streamline a process which previously involved mailing paper licences
The process of applying for and issuing export licences for works of art and objects of cultural interest has been digitised by Arts Council England.
The new portal, run by the Arts Council on behalf of the UK Government, is hoped to streamline the process of applying and issuing licences for both exporters and its expert advisers who assess applications.
The online portal ends the need for paper licences to be posted, instead keeping the application in one place from review to final decision. Its design has been informed by processionals from the worlds of art, antiques, antiquities trade and the museum sector.
Arts Council England said the newly published portal will allow items judged to be of outstanding national importance the best chance of remaining in the UK while exporters can show that goods are being legally transported overseas”.
Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England said: “In 2023, the UK made up approximately 17 percent of art and antiques sales worldwide, ranking third behind the United States and China and Arts Council England is proud to support it through the Export Licensing Unit on behalf of the UK Government.
“This new digital system will be easier and better to use for all those involved in this important part of our economy, while maintaining the proper checks and balances that allows the UK the chance to retain important works of art and cultural objects.”
Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “Our art market is one of the most competitive in the world, contributing over £1.5 billion to the economy last year while directly supporting over 45,000 jobs. We are keen to do everything we can to help it grow and maintain its place in the global market.
“This new fully digital portal will support the UK art market by simplifying processes for exporters so cultural items can have licences issued swiftly, efficiently and with the minimum of fuss.”
Two online events are planned this month to introduce users to the new portal.
Earlier this month, new Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said “rocket boosters” would be put under the creative, cultural and sport industries “to take the brakes off the economy, create opportunity for every child and export our incredible talent to the world.”
Culture Secretary plans to “take the brakes off” the cultural economy
