Netherlands bans trade in products from Israeli settlements

The Netherlands has begun enforcing a ban on the import and trade of goods originating from Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian and Syrian territories, as part of measures aimed at preventing Dutch economic activity from contributing to settlements considered illegal under international law.

The measure took effect on 22nd September and covers products originating from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as the occupied Golan Heights.

The prohibition applies not only to commercial imports but also to intermediary trade in settlement goods. Dutch companies operating abroad are also required to comply with the measure.

According to Dutch authorities, the restrictions can also apply to settlement products carried into the Netherlands by individual travellers, including goods brought in as souvenirs or gifts. Customs authorities are responsible for enforcing import restrictions at the border.

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If prohibited goods are identified in a traveller’s luggage, they may be confiscated, while prosecutors can determine whether further legal action is warranted. Deliberate violations of applicable sanctions legislation can carry criminal penalties.

The Dutch government had previously sought an EU-wide prohibition on trade in settlement products but moved ahead with national measures after failing to secure sufficient support among European Union member states. Belgium, Spain and Ireland have also pursued national measures concerning trade linked to Israeli settlements.

The Netherlands has maintained a policy since 2006 discouraging economic activities connected to Israeli settlements and has intensified that position amid developments in the occupied West Bank. The Dutch government says the settlements violate international law.

The International Court of Justice said in a July 2024 advisory opinion that Israel’s settlement policy and annexation of parts of the occupied Palestinian territory violate international law. 

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