The Netherlands

The Netherlands has long been Europe’s trading crossroads and is an obvious choice when it comes to finding the best place to locate a pan-European business. Its central location is no less relevant today: it is strategically placed to serve and service markets in the EU, central and eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Global business environment rankings, published by the Economist Intelligence Unit, rated Netherlands “the best place in Europe to do business” in the next five years (2003-2007).

The port of Rotterdam is the world’s largest seaport; and Schiphol Airport is recognised as one of the major business hubs in Europe and has claimed more than 100 international awards in recent years.

Netherlands is classified as one of the most “wired” countries in the world – a dynamic force in electronic commerce, communications and outsourcing. More than a decade of investment in high-speed internet, cable and digital communication systems, and the rapid adoption of state-of-the-art computer and mobile phone technology, has created an ideal base for companies seeking to take advantage of modern technology.

Netherlands has one of the most highly educated, flexible and motivated workforces in Europe. Dutch professionals are also among the most multilingual in the world, enabling them to operate successfully in companies across any industry serving customers throughout the continent.