New rules concerning the importation of artworks and antiquities will come into effect from Saturday across the European Union, the Federal Public Service (FPS) announced on Friday.
These regulations will apply to imports from non-EU countries, covering items such as old paintings, archaeological artefacts, manuscripts, and antiquities, and will affect individuals, museum and university staff, and art dealers alike.
The requirements will depend on the imported object’s nature, noted the FPS. For items deemed exceptionally rare and over 200 years old, an import licence will be mandatory. Meanwhile, for items over 200 years old valued at a minimum of €18,000 but considered less exceptional, an importer declaration will suffice.
“Too often, valuable cultural property disappears from its country of origin, sometimes even to finance terrorism. This is why Europe aims to combat the illegal trade of artworks and antiquities, to protect other countries’ heritage, and ensure the art market’s integrity,” explained FPS Economy spokesperson, Étienne Mignolet.
Applications for an import licence or importer declaration must be submitted via an online platform operated by the European Commission. In Belgium, the FPS Economy will handle these applications.
Only the customs offices in Antwerp, Brussels, Grâce-Hollogne, and Zaventem will be authorised to process these cultural goods.
