News item | 07-08-2025 | 15:00
The European Union (EU) has added 26 new plant and animal species to the so-called union list of invasive exotics. These species pose a threat to nature because they can displace indigenous species, convey diseases or cause damage to ecosystems. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN) supports this measure, which is intended to protect biodiversity.
State Secretary Rummenie (LVVN): “Invasive exotics are harmful to the diversity in our nature. They suppress native species and must therefore be tackled before they spread further. This step of the EU helps.”
Prohibition of possession, trade and distribution
Because of the addition to the uniel list, it is now forbidden to keep these species, trading, breeding, transporting or importing. Reproduction and distribution must also be prevented. It’s about 18 animal and 8 plant specieswhich can be found at the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA).
Animals and plants
Existing pets may be kept until their natural death, but may not be sold, deported or reproduce. Animals may be transferred to, for example, a daycare if the owner can no longer take care of it. The included plants may still be in gardens or ponds, provided they do not spread. Sales or giving away is not allowed.
Trade and supervision
Traders may still sell existing stocks until 7 August 2026. The new rules apply from 7 August 2027 for the American Nerts and the Canadian Bever. The NVWA is awarded compliance with the rules. More information about control and enforcement can be found at the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).
Background
The Expansion of the Union List is part of EU Regulation 1143/2014. This regulation regulates the approach to invasive exotics in Europe. Many of these species once ended up in Europe due to human actions, for example through the trade in ornamental plants or by unintended import. With the expansion, the EU wants to prevent further damage to nature and biodiversity.