The development of legislation in the veterinary field in the Netherlands under the influence of agreements with separate countries or that resulting from EEC directives is reviewed. The effects of international legislation on veterinary practice are elucidated with disease control in animals, equalization of certificates, animal welfare and the problem of residues. Effects on the authorities occur by way of EEC directives in the field of commercial traffic in fresh meat, fresh poultry meat and manufactured meats, bilateral agreements with third countries, international transport of animals and veterinary education. Attention is paid to the advisory role of the Federation of Veterinarians of the EEC (FVE) in EEC legislation in the veterinary field. In discussing future developments in legislation in the veterinary sphere, the Veterinary Medicinal Products Act, the Veterinary Surgeons' Act, the Animal Health and Welfare Act and the Integrated Surveillance System of the Animal and Meat Production Chain are referred to.