Foreign trade is the cornerstone of the Dutch economy. The Netherlands earns about a third of all its income from abroad. Foreign trade also generates around 2.6 million full-time jobs – about a third of the total number of jobs in the Netherlands. However, an open economy also makes the Netherlands vulnerable to unrest in the global markets.

The cabinet therefore opts for an assertive trade policy. What is good for our economy (prosperity) and what is important for the safety of our country (resilience) comes first.

Minister Klever: “This cabinet opts for a robust trade policy. We are going for prosperity and a strong, resilient economy. We will continue to support our entrepreneurs across borders and invest in promising sectors and markets. The Netherlands is a trade champion, and together we will ensure that this remains the case, even in a turbulent world.”

The Netherlands continues to invest in trusted partners and established markets where our companies have much success. The Netherlands is also looking for new strategic partners and the cabinet is focusing on promising markets of the future. These are countries that are expected to grow economically strong in the coming decades, for example, due to strong population growth or investments in education, research, and development.

The cabinet is also explicitly focusing on promising sectors and essential key technologies, such as semiconductors (microchips), quantum technology, and photonics. These technologies are not only important for the Dutch economy but also for our safety and our leadership in technology.

In the European Union, the cabinet wants to express itself even more clearly for Dutch trade interests. For example, in discussions about trade agreements. The cabinet is also committed to an international level playing field so that Dutch entrepreneurs have a fair chance.

Additionally, the cabinet is focused on a well-functioning internal European market, without unnecessary regulations. The Netherlands also advocates within the EU for a constructive dialogue with the United States regarding import tariffs. At the same time, we are ready to stand up for our economic interests with countermeasures if we cannot resolve issues through dialogue.

The cabinet is focused on the protection of Dutch technologies, together with the EU and international partners. The export of sensitive goods or technologies is controlled to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. The cabinet also actively pursues knowledge security policies and monitors the implementation and compliance with sanctions.

Support for Dutch entrepreneurs remains an important part of the trade policy. For example, through economic missions and by assisting entrepreneurs with international tenders. The Netherlands has various subsidy and financing options available for companies that want to operate internationally. Additionally, Invest International and Atradius Dutch State Business provide entrepreneurs with extra support to get risky projects off the ground abroad.

Finally, the cabinet wants to connect aid, trade, and investments more strongly, as outlined in the policy letter on Development Aid. The cabinet focuses on cooperation with Dutch companies in stable low- and middle-income countries. The focus is on themes where the Netherlands excels: food security, water management, and health.