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Hi-tech Trade with Netherlands

Netherlands, a healthy economy with a gross domestic product (GDP) of €560 billion (2007) and population of 16 million, presents a low-risk business environment for foreign investors especially for those in high-tech sectors.

The Dutch chemical industry indirectly contributes 10 percent to the GDP and is the global leader in sectors such as basic chemistry, food ingredients, coatings and high-performance materials. The industry also accounts for 20 percent of total Dutch exports.

Netherlands' major imports from across the world include machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, fuels, foodstuffs and clothing.

Trade Regulations

Because the Netherlands is part of the harmonised trade system of the European Union (EU), imports to the country need to clear customs only once through any of the EU member states.

This means that once goods have been cleared through customs in one EU country, you won't have to pay duty to ship the goods into another member country.

Singaporean exporters can thus access a larger market on top of the Netherlands. However, it is important to note that although customs is cleared only once within EU, there are different levels of sales tax in every country that has to be paid every time the goods cross a national border.

All products must comply with Dutch and EU regulations. Labels and instructions in Dutch, as well as a contact address within the EU, must also be included.

Special Requirements

Understanding the specific regulations governing certain products will facilitate Customs clearance. Some important points to note:

• Importing medicine will require an import license issued by the Ministry of Health. Shippers and consignees will have to enquire with the Netherlands Ministry of Health.
• The EU has imposed an anti-dumping import duty on certain leather footwear originating from or manufactured in China and Vietnam. Providing detailed information about the shoes, such as type of leather and intended user (e.g. children, women, men), is compulsory.
• Textile shipments valued over €345 (excluding freight) require a Certificate of Origin. An original export license is also required, if the textiles were originally manufactured in Asia or the Middle East. Sample shipments above €345 are excluded from the above certification and license requirements, if they are mutilated in a way to be unfit for sale on the market.
• All shipments of animal products, including honey, diary and fish products must be accompanied by a original health certificate from the exporting country. The producer or processor must also possess a registration number in the EU.

Need further information? UPS can advise you on any restrictions or special requirements for shipping to the Netherlands.

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