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THE HAGUE – Starting 17 May 2025, Dutch Customs will begin automated checks on ozone-depleting substances (OAS) declarations through the CERTEX system. The move aims to strengthen enforcement of EU environmental regulations on imports and exports involving these substances.
CERTEX, a digital interface connecting customs systems with non-customs data sources, will verify whether businesses possess valid licenses under the European ODS (Ozone-Depleting Substances) Licensing System. The checks will initially apply to both import and export declarations.
This initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT).
1️⃣ What Is CERTEX and Why Does It Matter?
CERTEX allows Dutch Customs to cross-reference trade declarations with external licensing systems. For businesses importing or exporting ODS, this means that:
- As of 17 May 2025, any OAS declaration will be subject to automatic checks.
- CERTEX will confirm whether the trader holds a valid EU ODS Licence.
These checks aim to ensure full compliance with the EU Regulation on Ozone-Depleting Substances, which prohibits unauthorized trade in certain controlled chemicals.
2️⃣ What Businesses Need to Know
Required Information in Declarations:
To avoid delays or rejections, ensure your customs declaration includes:
- A valid ODS Licence in the EU Licensing System
- The ozone depletion potential of the listed substances
- The mass and weight of the ODS being imported or exported
Customs authorities will provide more detailed guidance soon on the exact data fields CERTEX will validate.
3️⃣ Future Expansion of Controls
While the initial rollout focuses on import and export declarations, the CERTEX checks will eventually expand to:
- Transit procedures
- Storage arrangements
- Special customs regimes (IIAA)
Dutch Customs and ILT will jointly supervise these future phases. Additional details will be communicated as the implementation progresses.
4️⃣ Support for Businesses
Dutch Customs is actively supporting affected companies by:
- Sending direct emails to businesses that submitted OAS-related declarations in the past year
- Hosting an online information session on 24 April 2025, 10:00–11:00 CET
Register via: [email protected] - Providing regular updates and FAQs on the official website
- Offering personalized assistance through the National Customs Helpdesk and Business Contact Points
Have Questions?
For more information about CERTEX implementation and ODS requirements, businesses can contact:
[email protected]
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