The UK government is set to announce tougher export controls aimed at preventing British goods from reaching Russia, particularly through intermediary countries. Business Minister Chris Bryant highlighted the need for these measures to address concerns that existing sanctions are being undermined. The new licensing regime will require UK manufacturers to obtain a license if exporting to countries suspected of facilitating the diversion of goods to Russia. This initiative comes after scrutiny over exports of carbon fibre equipment to an Armenian firm with ties to Russia's military efforts in Ukraine. Bryant stated that the goal is to weaken the Russian economy and its military capacity, emphasizing that the government is motivated by the need to stay ahead of diversion tactics employed by the Russian state. Under the current system, the UK government can only raise concerns with exporters but cannot prevent exports outright. The new regulations will allow for goods to be stopped at the border if they lack the necessary licenses, addressing gaps in existing export controls.