The sale of softdrugs is tolerated in the coffeeshops, but the rules are strict. A coffeeshop has to close if the rules are broken 3 times. When a coffeeshop is closed, a new one is not allowed to open (extinction policy).

In April of this year the coffeeshops where smoking and drinking alcohol was allowed had to choose between becoming a regular pub (with alcohol sales, but no drugs), or a coffeeshop. This measure also reduced the number of coffeeshops.

The new government has announced that coffeeshops that are within 500 meters of a school also have to close. This would mean closure of 93% of the Amsterdam coffeeshops. It is uncertain whether the national rule will be strictly applied in Amsterdam.

Figures show that 30% of all visiting tourists go to a coffeeshop, so coffeeshops are important for the tourism to Amsterdam.