The Dutch automotive industry is characterized by a high technology level and an international working scope. The excellent business climate, logistics infrastructure and highly educated workforce make The Netherlands an ideal location for your European business.

 

 

The Netherlands provides a strategic location to serve markets within Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The central geographical position of the Netherlands, combined with accessibility and an excellent infrastructure are only some of the reasons.

 

The Netherlands is an obvious choice to locate a pan-European operation, whether it is a European headquarters, a Shared Services Center, a Customer Care Center, a distribution and logistics operation, or an R&D facility. An international outlook and openness to foreign investment is firmly ingrained in the Dutch culture.

 

The Port of Rotterdam is the world's third largest seaport, while Schiphol Airport is recognized as one of the major business hubs in Europe claiming over 100 international awards over the last couple of decades. The Netherlands is also classified as one of the most ‘wired' countries in the world with more than a decade of investment in high-speed Internet, cable and digital communication systems, as well as the rapid adoption of state-of-the-art computer and mobile phone technology.

 

The Netherlands features 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 successfully operate in companies in any industry serving customers throughout the continent.

 

The Netherlands is proud to have a high standard of living, while maintaining an affordable life for its residents. The costs of living, housing, education and cultural activities are lower than in most Western-European countries.

 

Since January 2007 the Dutch tax environment for international companies has become even more attractive. The corporate tax rate has been lowered to 25.5%, which is well below the EU national average. Dividend tax has been reduced from 25% to 15%. Furthermore, a patent box with a 10% tax rate on income from innovations was introduced. Combined with other traditional features of the Dutch tax system (wide tax treaty network, participation exemption, 30% tax break for highly qualified foreign employees), the fiscal climate is quite simply one more reason to establish or expand your European operations in the Netherlands.