Dutch Customs Seize Record 60 Tonnes of Cannabis in 2025
Dutch customs seized a record 60 tonnes of cannabis in 2025, primarily at Rotterdam, with plans to enhance control measures against smuggling
Key Points
- 1Dutch customs seized 60 tonnes of cannabis in 2025
- 2The majority was found at Rotterdam, with Schiphol also affected
- 3Cannabis originated from the US, Canada, and Thailand
- 4Smugglers are not concealing drugs, stacking them on pallets
- 5Dutch customs will increase controls and international cooperation
In a significant crackdown on drug smuggling, Dutch customs officials have seized a record 60 tonnes of cannabis in 2025, marking a dramatic increase from the 14.5 tonnes intercepted in 2024. The majority of this substantial haul was discovered at the port of Rotterdam, though Schiphol airport has also become a notable point of entry for smugglers. Customs authorities have noted a shift in smuggling tactics, with traffickers making little effort to conceal the drugs, often stacking them openly on pallets
The seized cannabis largely originated from the United States, Canada, and Thailand, and was intended for distribution across Europe. Neighboring countries, including Germany, Belgium, and Spain, have also reported higher seizures than in previous years. In response to the increased smuggling activity, Dutch customs have announced plans to enhance their control measures and collaborate more closely with international authorities to curb the influx of illegal cannabis