Dutch exporters are expressing rising concern over international trade policy developments, with 95% of exporting manufacturers in the Netherlands anticipating negative impacts in the coming year, according to a new survey conducted by Statistics Netherlands (CBS).

The CBS survey, conducted in May 2025, reveals that nearly four out of five manufacturing companies in the Netherlands are involved in exporting. Among them, the most pressing concerns relate to non-tariff barriers such as customs checks and product specification rules, which are feared to disrupt export activities. Approximately 77% of respondents cited import tariffs as a major concern, up from less than 10% last year, underscoring a notable shift in perception amid evolving trade landscapes.

Notably, more than a quarter (26%) of exporting manufacturers expect non-tariff measures to negatively affect their business. Meanwhile, 15% voiced concerns about compliance with new sustainability standards and guidelines, reflecting the increasing pressure to meet international environmental expectations.

Companies in the refinery and chemical sectors were particularly apprehensive about the impact of trade sanctions, suggesting sector-specific vulnerabilities.

The percentage of exporters who believe trade policy changes will not affect their business has fallen sharply to just 8%, compared to 47% in March 2023. Among those anticipating consequences, 40% are primarily worried about declines in export volumes, nearly double the 23% recorded last year. An additional 9% foresee changes in pricing structures as a likely outcome.

IMEX SECTOR | China to Resume Japanese Beef Imports After a 24-Year Ban