Violating Dutch ban on settlement goods could carry up to 6 years in prison

The Netherlands has begun enforcing a ban on goods originating from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights.

The restrictions, which took effect this week, apply to businesses and to travelers entering the country.

Under Dutch customs guidance, travelers may not bring affected goods into the Netherlands, even for personal use or as gifts.

Items such as wine, dates, soap and souvenirs could fall under the ban. It also covers goods made elsewhere if they contain an ingredient originating from one of the areas covered by the measure.

Travelers are responsible for checking where the goods they carry originated. Dutch authorities recommend keeping receipts, invoices and original packaging as proof in case of an inspection. The rules also apply to people arriving from another European Union country.

Anyone who deliberately evades the ban could face a substantial fine or, in the most serious cases, up to six years in prison. The restrictions also prohibit the sale, purchase and brokering of affected goods in the Netherlands.

The ban applies to physical goods, not services. Dutch companies may therefore continue to provide services connected to businesses in the affected areas.

The policy has added to tensions between Israel and the Netherlands. In late August, Israel expelled two Dutch representatives working at a Gaza coordination center. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar described the move as a response to Dutch measures.