Netherlands Import Restrictions

In order to enter Netherlands, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of Netherlands government, preferably, license must be obtained prior to passage through the customs, preventing the goods from being retained. On this page, you will see what kinds of items are prohibited from entering the Netherlands, and which items need special documentation before exporting to Netherlands.

The Netherlands is one of the most significant trading hubs in Europe and has a well-established system of import regulations designed to ensure that goods entering the country comply with national standards for safety, health, and environmental protection. As a member of the European Union (EU), the Netherlands adheres to EU-wide regulations, but also enforces its own domestic policies in areas such as agriculture, public health, and environmental protection. The importation of goods into the Netherlands is crucial to its economy, and the regulations surrounding these imports aim to balance open trade with the protection of citizens, local industries, and the environment.

The Dutch Customs Administration, which operates under the Ministry of Finance, is responsible for overseeing the importation process, collecting duties and taxes, and enforcing import restrictions. In addition to customs regulations, several other government bodies, including the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, and the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), play essential roles in regulating specific sectors. These include the importation of food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and products that may have an impact on public health or the environment.

For businesses and individuals seeking to import goods into the Netherlands, understanding the country’s import restrictions and requirements for licensing is critical. These regulations ensure that goods entering the country are safe, meet necessary standards, and do not pose any risk to the population or environment.

Prohibited Items for Import into the Netherlands

The Netherlands enforces strict regulations that prohibit the importation of certain goods. These restrictions are based on national priorities, European Union directives, and international agreements. Goods are prohibited primarily due to concerns related to public health, safety, security, and environmental protection.

Products Harmful to Public Health and Safety

Public health and safety are a top priority in the Netherlands, and the government has implemented several restrictions to prevent the entry of goods that could cause harm. These prohibited items include illicit drugs, counterfeit products, and hazardous substances.

• Illicit Drugs and Narcotics: The Netherlands has strict laws regarding the importation of narcotics and illegal drugs. As part of its commitment to international drug control agreements such as the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, the Netherlands prohibits the import of illegal drugs, including heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamines. The Dutch Customs Administration, in cooperation with law enforcement agencies, works to intercept smuggled drugs at the borders. Narcotics are classified as highly dangerous substances that pose significant risks to public health, and importing them without proper authorization is punishable by severe penalties, including imprisonment and large fines. The Netherlands has a zero-tolerance policy regarding illicit drugs, and any attempt to smuggle them into the country is taken very seriously.

• Counterfeit Medicines and Hazardous Products: The Netherlands has strict regulations to prevent the importation of counterfeit pharmaceuticals and unsafe medical products. The Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board (MEB) regulates the importation of pharmaceuticals, ensuring that only approved and tested medicines enter the market. Counterfeit medicines that are substandard or ineffective pose a significant public health risk and are banned from entering the country. Similarly, medical devices that do not meet safety standards are prohibited. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) also monitors the safety of consumer products, including toys, food items, and other goods, to prevent the sale of hazardous products. Counterfeit goods that violate intellectual property rights are not allowed to enter the Netherlands, and violators may face legal action.

Environmentally Harmful Goods

As a country that is highly engaged in sustainability and environmental conservation, the Netherlands has established regulations to prevent the import of goods that could harm the environment. These restrictions are based on international environmental conventions and domestic policies aimed at protecting biodiversity and reducing pollution.

• Hazardous Waste and E-Waste: The Netherlands is committed to the Basel Convention, which governs the international movement of hazardous waste. The importation of hazardous waste, including electronic waste (e-waste), industrial waste, and medical waste, is prohibited under Dutch law. E-waste, which consists of discarded electronics like mobile phones, computers, and televisions, contains harmful substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can be hazardous to both human health and the environment if not disposed of properly. The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management monitors the importation of waste and ensures that the country does not become a dumping ground for harmful waste. E-waste and hazardous waste imports are strictly regulated to minimize pollution and environmental degradation.

• Products Derived from Endangered Species: The Netherlands enforces strict regulations to prevent the importation of goods derived from endangered species. These goods are covered under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which the Netherlands is a party to. Products such as ivory, animal pelts, rare plants, and other wildlife products that are obtained from endangered species are prohibited from entering the country. These products are often linked to illegal wildlife trade, which poses a significant threat to biodiversity. The Netherlands works with international organizations to combat wildlife trafficking and ensure that endangered species are protected from exploitation. Goods that violate these restrictions are confiscated, and violators are subject to legal action.

Products Requiring Import Licenses

In addition to prohibited goods, there are several categories of products that can only be imported into the Netherlands with the appropriate licenses. These goods require careful scrutiny and approval by the relevant authorities to ensure that they meet the country’s regulatory standards for safety, health, and environmental protection.

Goods Subject to Import Licensing

The Netherlands requires an import license for certain goods that could have significant impacts on public health, safety, or the environment. These goods include pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and agricultural products, among others. Import licenses are intended to ensure that these goods comply with national laws and regulations before they enter the market.

• Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices: The Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board (MEB) regulates the importation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices into the Netherlands. Importers must obtain an import license for medicines, medical devices, and other health-related products to ensure they meet the country’s safety and quality standards. These products must undergo rigorous testing and meet certification requirements before they are allowed entry. The Ministry of Health monitors the safety and effectiveness of medicines and medical devices through regulatory approval processes. Importers must provide detailed information about the product’s origin, safety records, and compliance with international standards, such as those set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Only products that meet these strict standards are approved for sale in the Dutch market.

• Agricultural Products and Livestock: The Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality regulates the importation of agricultural products, including seeds, fruits, vegetables, livestock, and dairy products. These goods require an import license to ensure that they comply with national and EU health and safety standards. The Netherlands enforces strict phytosanitary regulations to prevent the introduction of plant pests, diseases, and other biological risks that could harm local agriculture. Similarly, livestock imports must meet veterinary health standards to prevent the spread of diseases such as avian influenza or foot-and-mouth disease. Importers must submit health certificates and documentation proving that the agricultural products meet the required quality and safety standards. Special permits are also required for the import of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which are subject to additional regulations to ensure their safety and environmental impact.

Environmentally Regulated Goods

In line with its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, the Netherlands enforces regulations on goods that could harm the environment. These goods require import licenses to ensure they comply with the country’s environmental laws and contribute to the country’s long-term sustainability goals.

• Chemicals and Hazardous Substances: The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management regulates the importation of chemicals and hazardous substances that could pose a risk to public health or the environment. This includes industrial chemicals, pesticides, solvents, and fertilizers. Importers must obtain an import license for these goods to ensure that they comply with safety standards set by national and international regulations, such as the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation in the EU. The Netherlands monitors the safety and environmental impact of chemicals to ensure that they are used responsibly and that they do not harm human health or the environment. Importers must submit detailed information about the chemical composition, potential risks, and safety data sheets to obtain an import license.

• Plastic and Packaging Materials: The Netherlands has implemented strict policies on plastic waste management and sustainability. As part of its effort to reduce plastic pollution, the importation of plastic products, particularly single-use plastics and non-recyclable packaging materials, is regulated. The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and the Dutch Environmental Protection Agency enforce rules to limit plastic waste and encourage the import of eco-friendly alternatives. Importers of plastic goods must comply with regulations related to recyclability and biodegradable materials. Products that do not meet the required environmental standards may be subject to additional fees, or their importation may be denied. The Netherlands encourages the importation of plastic products that can be recycled or are made from sustainable materials in line with EU policies on waste reduction and circular economy principles.

Regulated Consumer Goods

Certain consumer goods also require import licenses to ensure that they meet the necessary safety, quality, and environmental standards before entering the Dutch market. These goods include motor vehicles, electronics, and household appliances, which are subject to regulations that protect both consumers and the environment.

• Motor Vehicles and Spare Parts: The Dutch Ministry of Transport regulates the importation of motor vehicles, including used cars, to ensure that they meet safety and emissions standards. Importers must obtain a license for vehicles to be sold in the Netherlands and provide certification that the vehicles comply with EU safety standards and environmental regulations. The Ministry conducts inspections to verify that imported vehicles meet road safety and emissions requirements. Used vehicles are subject to more rigorous scrutiny, and importers must ensure that these vehicles comply with current emissions and safety standards to reduce air pollution and ensure public safety. Importers of vehicle spare parts must also ensure that the parts meet safety standards and are compatible with Dutch regulations.

• Electronics and Household Appliances: The Dutch Consumer and Market Authority (ACM) regulates the importation of electronics and household appliances to ensure they meet safety and energy efficiency standards. These products must be tested and certified to ensure that they do not pose electrical hazards and comply with energy efficiency requirements. The Netherlands enforces EU regulations on the Energy Labeling Directive and the Low Voltage Directive to ensure that electronic products, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines, meet technical safety standards and are energy-efficient. Importers must provide documentation demonstrating that their goods comply with these standards to prevent the entry of substandard or unsafe products. Non-compliant products may be rejected at the border or subject to fines and penalties.