General Information

In 2022 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 those investing in R&D or environment. In addition, existing opportunities in various sectors, particularly in renewable energies or transport.

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 widely used. Bank guarantees (SBLC in particular) and credit insurance can be used to secure transactions. Documentary credits are rarely used.

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