Since 1 July 2025, the production and sale of so-called designer drugs has been banned in the Netherlands. This closes a dangerous loophole that drug dealers have exploited for years. What exactly are these ‘new psychoactive substances’ (NPS)? Why was a new law necessary? And how do the police and society benefit from this measure? This article provides the answers.
What are designer drugs?
Designer drugs, officially known as new psychoactive substances (NPS), are chemically modified versions of known drugs. Even small changes to the molecular structure – such as replacing a single atom – are enough to create a new substance that is not covered by the law. The effects of these substances often remain the same or are even significantly stronger than those of the original active ingredient. They are often synthetic variants of cannabinoids, i.e. substances with similar effects to THC in cannabis, or so-called fentanyls, which are particularly potent opioids with effects similar to heroin. Substances from the phenethylamine group also belong to this category, including cathinones in particular, which have effects similar to amphetamines or MDMA.
In the past, these synthetic drugs were often sold legally on the internet – with a trivialising public image, but sometimes with fatal consequences.
Why has this been a problem up to now?
The previous drug legislation was unable to keep pace with the speed of innovation in illegal chemical laboratories. Whenever a substance was officially banned, the next, slightly modified variant appeared on the market. Each new substance had to be individually tested, evaluated and legally registered in a laborious and time-consuming process.
For the police and judiciary, this meant a constant game of cat and mouse – with unequal resources.
What does the new law bring?
With the new law, the Dutch government has taken a decisive step. Since 1 July 2025, it is no longer just individual substances that are banned, but entire groups of substances. New additions to the Opiumwet’s ‘IA list’ include all synthetic cannabinoids, all fentanyl derivatives and the phenethylamine group, which includes cathinones. This means that a generic ban automatically applies to all variants of these substance classes, regardless of minor chemical differences. A minimal change in the molecular structure is no longer sufficient to exploit a legal grey area – the legal framework has been significantly tightened.
Strengthening police work
The Dutch police expressly welcome the change in the law. Willem Woelders, drug commissioner for the police, speaks of a ‘milestone’ in the fight against NPS crime. With the new law, dangerous substances can be combated in advance without the need for separate proceedings for each individual substance. The new law greatly facilitates cooperation, especially in international investigations. Previously, it was often impossible to respond to requests for legal assistance from other countries because the substances in question were not yet banned in the Netherlands. This restriction no longer applies.
Greater safety – also for the general public
The new legal framework not only protects the police and judiciary in their work, but also directly protects the population. Designer drugs often have unpredictable effects – even the smallest amounts can lead to serious overdoses. Many users do not know what active ingredients they are consuming, as the composition and purity are rarely traceable. In addition, the manufacture of these substances involves considerable risks. Illegal laboratories where the drugs are produced pose a high risk of explosion and are often located in residential areas. This poses a high safety risk not only for users but also for uninvolved residents. Online marketing of these substances has further trivialised their consumption – the new law sends a clear signal against the normalisation of dangerous drugs.
Well prepared for implementation
The Dutch police have prepared intensively for the new legal situation. Police officers are receiving comprehensive training on the changes to drug law via an e-learning platform. In addition, a handbook has been developed to support officers in so-called ‘stop talks’ with dealers.
During these conversations, sellers are informed about the new legal situation and that trading in most synthetic drugs is now a criminal offence.
Conclusion: A clear step towards safety
With the new law on new psychoactive substances, Dutch politicians are sending a clear signal: the era of legal grey areas for chemically modified drugs is over. The blanket ban on entire groups of substances will make the work of the police and judiciary considerably easier, while at the same time making a significant contribution to health protection and public safety. The Netherlands is thus taking a leading role in dealing with designer drugs – and sending a clear signal to manufacturers, dealers and consumers: these substances are not only illegal – they are extremely dangerous.
