Exporting to the Netherlands

There are a number of things to consider before preparing to export to the Netherlands.

VAT

VAT is called BTW in the Netherlands. The usual rate is 21%. A lower rate of 9% applies to some products and services, such as food, medicines, and paint and plaster for homes.

Standards and regulations

Products and services should meet relevant EU safety standards, including clear instructions for proper use, and include warnings against misuse.

The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) is responsible for standards.

Services regulations

Read information on rules for selling services and business travel to the Netherlands.

Packaging and labelling

EU standards apply to packaging.

Payment terms

Dutch law requires that every invoice should be paid within 30 days unless the buyer and supplier agree on other payment conditions.

A payment term of over 60 days is only allowed if it can be shown that it is not detrimental to either party.

Netherlands Enterprise Agency has provided more information on payment terms.

Trade barriers

Check for any reported barriers to trading with the Netherlands.

Report any trade barriers that are affecting your business so we can help fix them.

Operating in the Netherlands

Local partnerships

The Netherlands is a small and well-developed market, so a local representative can be very helpful.

Dutch government: Doing business in the Netherlands.

Intellectual property

Intellectual property (IP) rights are territorial and rights granted in the UK do not provide protection elsewhere. You should consider getting IP protection abroad if you want to trade overseas or sell to overseas customers via the internet.

The Intellectual Property Office provides practical information to help you protect, manage and enforce your IP abroad. Further support for British businesses can be found through a network of IP attachés, based in key UK export markets.