When considering its relative size, it is amazing how well the Netherlands features in a range of key European statistics. Its rich history in international trade is still seen in the way that business is conducted today. The legal system in the Netherlands is considered transparent and reliable and in the efficiency assessment it comes out third in Europe1. Ever since the beginning of international trade in history, the Netherlands has built on an impressive infrastructure, which is shown by the following statistics: • Rotterdam is the largest container port in Europe2 • The Netherlands is ranked second in maritime transport of goods in Europe3 • Schiphol is the fourth largest airport in Europe4 • Passenger traffic, is ranked sixth in Europe3 • It is ranked third in terms of kilometres of freeways and divided highways in Europe3 • The prices of telecom are competitive and rank the Netherlands again third3 The Netherlands has highly skilled and specialised employees with Scientists and Engineers making up 7,3% of the country’s total employment3 ranking it third in Europe. Combined with a very good protection of intellectual property rights, where it is considered best of Europe1, this makes the Netherlands an appealing country when it comes to high tech environments and R&D. The most problematic factors for doing business in the Netherlands5 are considered to be: • Restrictive labour regulations • Inefficient government bureaucracy • Access to financing 1 World Economic Forum, 2009 2 World Container Traffic Data, 2012 3 Eurostat 2010 4 Airports Council International, 2010 5 Global Competitiveness Report 2011-2012 (World Economic Forum E&OE
If you would like more detailed information regarding inward investments in the Netherlands, please visit the NFIA website
the Netherlands
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