- Import Intent
You intend to import medicinal cannabis into the Netherlands. The Netherlands has a unique dual system: OMC (Office of Medicinal Cannabis) handles government-tendered supply; private imports occur via CCBM authorization.
- CCBM import authorization (per shipment)
- IGJ-licensed importer / wholesale dealer
- EU-GMP Part I certificate mandatory for finished product
- OMC tender or private import?
OMC manages the government tender for standardised cannabis products supplied to Dutch pharmacies. Private imports are for non-tendered products via CCBM authorization.
- OMC Tender Pathway — Government supply channel
OMC issues tenders for standardised cannabis products (Bedrocan varieties). Only OMC-contracted suppliers may supply these products to Dutch pharmacies.
- Respond to OMC public tender
- EU-GMP Part I certification required
- Product must meet OMC standardisation requirements
- OMC contracts awarded for 2–4 year periods
- Private Import — CCBM — Non-tendered products
Bureau for Medicinal Cannabis (CCBM) authorizes per-shipment imports of non-OMC products. Required for branded products, novel formulations, or foreign-manufactured cannabis not in OMC tender.
- CCBM import authorization per shipment
- Dutch licensed importer as sponsor
- EU-GMP Part I for finished product mandatory
- Apply: CCBM Import Authorization
Application to Bureau for Medicinal Cannabis. Submit product documentation, GMP/GACP certificates, and exporting country authorization.
- Product specifications and COA
- EU-GMP Part I certificate
- GACP certificate
- Exporting country export authorization
- Processing: approximately 3–5 weeks
- Authorization granted?
CCBM issues or requests additional information. Common issues: GMP certificate scope, product labeling in Dutch, or GACP certificate currency.
- Address CCBM Queries
Respond to CCBM in writing. Dutch-language labeling is commonly flagged — ensure labeling complies with Dutch Medicines Act.
- Dutch-language product labeling
- Updated certificates if flagged
- Authorization Issued
Per-shipment CCBM authorization issued. Valid for the specific product, quantity, and supplier.
- Original must accompany shipment
- Rotterdam port or Amsterdam Schiphol — primary entry points
- Dutch Customs Entry
Customs clearance at Rotterdam (sea) or Schiphol (air). Opium Act declaration required. CCBM authorization presented.
- CCBM authorization (original)
- Opium Act import declaration
- All shipping documents + COA
- Shipment Cleared ✓
Released to licensed Dutch importer/distributor. QP certification required before pharmacy supply.