Netherlands Trading and Politics

Trading – Export/Import

The Netherlands incorporates foreign trade as the main force that runs through all aspects of consumerism for economic wealth. Foreign trade has long been a strong driving power leading the country to economic sustainability. The economy is driven by foreign exportation and importation. The main sectors of trade are agri-food, horticulture, chemicals and maritime engineering. The Netherlands is ranked 23rd in the world on the Economic Complexity Index (ECI). Many of the imports and exports traded internationally are from EU partners such as Germany, France and Italy; however a large percentage of trade is with countries around the world such as the United States and China. The profound influence the Netherlands has had on other countries through trading of goods can also be seen in innovative solutions countries have implemented to improve their environmental sustainability and impact that directly reflect on strategies formed by Dutch innovators, scientists and industry leaders.

Despite having a small landmass (approximately twice the size of New Jersey), Holland is considered one of the densest populated countries in the world and is the fifth largest exporter of goods in the world. Because so much of the country’s value is invested in tradable commodities, much of the country’s population is involved directly or indirectly in foreign trade. The strong economy and influential role the Netherland plays in the EU is a direct reflection on the importance of trading goods in the lives of all of its citizens. The geography of the land in the Netherlands plays a major role in what goods are exported and imported. The most important commodity for importation and exportation is refined or crude petroleum oils.

The land may be abundant for some resources, however it limits the production of many goods and commodities. This causes a massive demand for products that must be imported. The country is the seventh-largest importer of goods in the...