Business Climate Survey for the Netherlands
About the Survey
2025 marks the fifth time the Business Climate Survey has been conducted in the Netherlands, providing unique insights into the local economic outlook, specific market parameters, and success factors for Swedish companies to succeed in the Dutch market.
This year, the survey was distributed to a selective sample of 116 Swedish companies operating in the Netherlands. Data collection took place between February 3rd and March 6th, 2025, resulting in 64 completed responses.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all participants for sharing their insights, which contribute to our shared efforts to deepen the strong and forward-looking relationship between Sweden and the Netherlands.
The Netherlands Business Climate Survey 2025
The 2025 Business Climate Survey is conducted at a time when the Dutch business environment is shaped by cautious optimism. The current Dutch economy presents a mixed picture as it navigates both global and domestic uncertainties. While GDP is showing signs of growth, inflationary pressures remain persistent, influencing business strategies. In response, many companies are adopting a cautious approach, balancing growth ambitions with the need for stability. Ongoing economic challenges, coupled with regulatory and geopolitical pressures, are prompting businesses to adjust to a more unpredictable
market environment.
In July 2024, a new independent prime minister was sworn in to lead a four-party coalition consisting of the Party for Freedom (PVV), the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD), New Social Contract (NSC), and the Farmer-Citizen Movement (BBB). While the coalition agreement marked a turning point after months of uncertainty, negotiations on key policy issues are expected to continue in 2025, maintaining a degree of political caution.
Swedish companies continue to see the Netherlands as a key market, but concerns about the broader business climate are becoming more pronounced. Despite relatively stable levels of business activity, a growing number of companies report frustration with factors such as regulatory complexity, inconsistent implementation of rules, and a perceived lack of long-term policy clarity. Respondents also highlight challenges related to the availability of skilled talent and strains on energy infrastructure. While the Netherlands continues to hold a strong position internationally, addressing these structural issues will
be crucial for sustaining its competitiveness and appeal in the years ahead.
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Global Business Climate Survey
About the survey
The Global Business Climate Survey is jointly produced by Business Sweden, the Swedish Chambers of Commerce (SCI), and Sweden’s embassies and consulates and covers 23 markets in Western Europe, APAC, MEA+, and the Americas.
The survey was first carried out in 2020 and captures the viewpoints, experiences, and insights of Swedish business leaders overseas. This year, more than 1,700 C-level representatives of Swedish companies abroad responded to the survey and answered 18 standard questions on the business climate in their main markets. The responses from the various regions are weighted in the survey results.
Global Business Climate Survey 2024
For the fifth consecutive year, the Global Business Climate Survey monitors the views of 1,700 decision-makers at Swedish companies operating in 24 markets worldwide.
The findings reveal a divided picture – sentiment has dropped compared to last year but a positive outlook on the business climate prevails in most markets. Meanwhile, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and India stand out for most favourable assessments in 2024.
Around half of the respondents plan to increase their investments slightly or significantly in the next 12 months. Overall, 65 per cent of Swedish companies expect their industry turnover to increase. This year, the top three success factors were deemed to be cost efficiency, sales competence and partnerships/brand awareness.
Download the report to get first-hand perspectives on local business conditions and how to navigate successfully in different markets and regions.
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