Compliance is essential
International sanctions and export control regulations have become increasingly strict and complex, posing serious risks for internationally active businesses. Any breach, intentional or not, can result in criminal prosecution, heavy fines, reputational harm, and even personal liability for directors. That’s why proactive compliance in this field is essential, not only as a legal obligation but as a strategic necessity.
Our expert team
We offer tailored support, combining legal expertise with sector-specific knowledge and a pragmatic, hands-on approach. Our multidisciplinary team helps you assess risks, develop and implement effective compliance procedures, and provides legal representation vis-à-vis the authorities and courts where needed. Whether your company operates in technology, defence, chemicals, energy, or financial services, we ensure you meet all regulatory requirements and are well-prepared to handle investigations or enforcement actions. With our guidance, you can confidently navigate the evolving landscape of international sanctions and export controls on strategic goods and services.
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Work highlights
- Extensive review of a bank's sanctions policy and assistance when Dutch Central Bank announced that it would be taking action.
- Providing a worldwide logistics company with ongoing assistance on export control matters (dual-use) and the application for exemptions.
- Advising the Big Four audit firms on their obligations under the sanctions legislation.
- Advising and guidance financial institutions in relation to the Dutch and European sanction regulations regarding i.a. Russia/Crimea.
- Assisting a global leader in the development, manufacture, and out-licensing of complex generics and hybrid medicines in several discussions with the Dutch Customs authorities and relevant Dutch ministries on EU-sanctions related issues. This assistance comprised of securing ongoing European exports to the Russian Federation of medicine on humanitarian grounds and against the background of complex and developing EU legislation
- Representing a major petrochemical terminal company in a customs litigation matter regarding (EU) anti-dumping legislation.
- Representing an international player in season decorations in a procedure before the court of appeal regarding (i.a.) import duties.
- Representing a major supplier of timber (as an injured party) in litigation due to suspicions of violations of the Russia sanctions.
- Represented a leading international maritime service provider in a civil dispute with its insurer concerning a cyber incident with alleged involvement of an OFAC SDN.
- Represented a major engineering and manufacturing company in a criminal investigation into possible breaches of Dutch/EU sanction regulations regarding Russia/Crimea. The case resulted in an out-of-court settlement.
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What others say
- "The ability to bridge and translate our values, interests and drivers towards the facts, circumstances and principles underlying a criminal process, is the key strength of NautaDutilh." Chambers Europe, 2025
- “The NautaDutilh team is hands-on and works as a true partner. The lawyers are there when we need them.” Chambers Europe, 2025
- “One of the leading financial crime departments in the Netherlands.” The Legal 500, 2025
- “The Nauta team in the Netherlands distinguishes itself by demonstrating not only highly professional legal expertise but also having an acute awareness of changing norms in society and how these might influence the development of law.” The Legal 500, 2024
- “The Nauta team is highly experienced and has the respect and trust of the Dutch public Prosecutors.” The Legal 500, 2024
- “The Corporate Crime and Corporate investigations team of NautaDutilh stands out for their expertise. They handle high profile cases, and as one of the few bigger law firms, they also represent their clients in court.” The Legal 500, 2024.
Specific services
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Sanctions legislation
Risk analysis and implementation: We combine legal expertise with sector-specific knowledge and collaborate with technical specialists. In this way, we support businesses daily in determining whether (EU) sanctions legislation applies to their services or products, and what the implications may be. We conduct risk analyses and assist in drafting and implementing effective compliance procedures to ensure adherence to relevant sanctions legislation.’
Legal assistance: When regulators or investigative authorities (such as Customs, the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate, the Fiscal Information and Investigation Service, or the Public Prosecution Service) launch an investigation into a (suspected) breach of sanctions legislation, we can advise you and, if necessary, provide legal support during the investigation itself and its subsequent proceedings.
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Customs matters
Legal assistance: When Customs or investigative authorities initiate an investigation into an (alleged) breach of customs regulations, we can advise you and, if necessary, provide legal assistance during the investigation itself and any subsequent proceedings, such as administrative (penalty) procedures or court actions.
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Dual use & export control
We advise businesses on the impact of dual use and export control regulations on their operations.
Licensing requirements: We help you determine which licensing requirements apply, advise on procedures in relation to the competent authorities, and guide licence applications, both in the Netherlands and internationally. If there is uncertainty about the applicability of export control regulations, we support you in obtaining certainty through binding information from the competent authorities.
Policy and training: We assist in drafting internal procedures, implementing screening systems and providing training for your staff to ensure and maintain compliance.
Enforcement and legal assistance: When regulators or investigative authorities launch investigations into (potential) breaches of sanctions or export restrictions, we provide legal support during investigations and proceedings. If necessary, we can assist you in conducting your own investigation to establish the factual situation, enabling your organisation to implement targeted measures if required.
