30 August 1999. Thanks to quintessenz and TS; B for WMD.
Source:
http://www.heise.de/newsticker/data/cp-27.08.99-003/
Translation by JYA/Systran.
Heise Online, August 27, 1999
Beginning September 1 export of encryption products, which qualify as mass market goods, for third country markets no longer requires an export license. There will be no restriction on key lengths, explained economics minister Siegmar Mosdorf on Friday in Berlin. For mass market products in general an export control requirement will continue to exist, these however will require only a one-time export review and license.
The new regulation generally applies world-wide with the exception of a few countries, if goods are not intended for "a sensitive use, for instance in the military category or for weapons of mass destruction. Exporters themselves shall determine the classification of their products and whether the products are exempt from control or an export license is needed. There is no general obligation to officially report this classification. (cp/c't)