From experience to action: Latvia and the Netherlands exchange best practices in sanctions investigations

Recognizing Latvia’s role as a guardian of the EU’s external border, in September representatives of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), State Revenue Service’s National Customs Board, Tax and Customs Police Department and State Security Service were invited to visit the Dutch Investigation Service for Financial and Tax Crime (FIOD).

To ensure more effective detection and investigation of cross-border sanctions violations, international cooperation plays a crucial role, particularly among the Member States of the European Union.

The invitation reflected recognition of Latvia’s commitment to making the investigation of sanctions violations one of its top priorities. During the visit, representatives from both countries exchanged experiences, methods, and ideas on how to detect and investigate sanctions violations and hold those involved accountable. The Netherlands’ expertise in investigating sanctions violations is regarded as among the most effective internationally.

At the beginning of November, FIU hosted representatives from FIOD to continue the discussions already initiated and to foster new ideas for improving internal investigation processes. FIOD introduced FIU experts to practical examples illustrating how investigations are conducted and key aspects that require special attention. During the visit, representatives from both countries reaffirmed the importance of close bilateral cooperation to promote the exchange of best practices and strengthen a trusted professional partnership.

The valuable experience of FIOD was also shared with a wider audience on 6 November 2025 during the FIU-organized conference “Guarding the Gate: Sanctions, Export Controls & Business Responsibilities.” In a panel discussion, Ruud Leeuwendaal, Head of the Anti-Terrorism Financing and Sanctions Team at FIOD, presented practical case studies and discussed the implications of sanctions violations.

Conference recording in Latvian:

Conference recording in English:

Since April 2024, the FIU has been the national competent authority for sanctions enforcement in Latvia.