General Information

In 2021 France was the Netherlands’ 6th-largest supplier and dependent on external demand. French products enjoy a good reputation.
French companies often establish themselves in the country to sustain or develop business flows in the local market, which is of a modest size, but also with the neighbouring countries. Beyond its geographic location, the Netherlands also offers cutting-edge infrastructure (Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe), and a qualified and polyglot workforce with high purchasing power. The country is also known to be far ahead in terms of innovation and digital. Furthermore, the Netherlands has pragmatic legislation and an attractive taxation system for international companies, particularly for holdings or those investing in R&D. In addition, existing opportunities in various sectors, particularly in renewable energies.

The Dutch are very pragmatic and quite direct in the exchanges. They are also very sensitive to prices, but are quite open to foreign products.

Means of Payment & Banking Specificities

Swift and SEPA transfers are very frequently used. In order to secure a transaction, it is possible to use a letter of credit, a bank guarantee or a credit insurance.  Documentary remittance is also used.

In e-commerce, the iDEAL means of payment is essential.