Article 10 of the Saudi Narcotics Law Implementing Regulations

Obtaining a license to import or export narcotic or psychotropic substances is not enough; the requested quantity is reviewed according to three controls:

1. For import: the quantity to be imported must not exceed the quantity stated in the establishment's need approved by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority.
2. For export – matching: the details and quantity of the substance to be exported must match the details and quantity of the substance, or part of the quantity, in the import license issued by the country to which it is to be exported.
3. For export – the international ceiling: the quantity to be exported must not exceed the annual need of the importing country approved by the International Narcotics Control Board.

In practical terms, an establishment cannot import more than its approved need, nor export a quantity that differs from the importing country's license or exceeds that country's internationally approved need. The quantity exported may be part of the licensed quantity rather than all of it.

This article is linked to Article 9, which requires the approved annual need and the import permit from the other country. Establishments facing a refusal of their quantities can consult a lawyer specialized in commercial cases.