A member of the European Union (EU), the Netherlands is located in the heart of Western Europe and borders Germany, the EU’s biggest economy, to its right.
It is a modern and industrialised country, and is noted for its stable industrial relations. Due to its location, the Netherlands also serves an important role as a European transportation hub.
In addition to having a highly educated, multi-lingual and flexible workforce, it is home to the world’s third largest seaport in the Port of Rotterdam, while its Schiphol Airport is recognized as one of the major business hubs in Europe.
• Ease of doing business ranking: 301 • Economic freedom ranking: 152
The Netherlands is Singapore’s 18th largest trading partner in 2009 with total trade amounting to S$11.8 billion, down from S$16 billion in 20083.