Economic overview and business climate
Rotterdam and the Netherlands offer a highly business-friendly environment, with a stable economic, political and social climate and low business risks. International businesses are welcomed by local, regional and national governments. This openness is reflected in supportive government policies, our Make It Happen business culture and the ease of doing business in English. Combined with the strong Rotterdam economy and high Netherlands quality of life, the city is increasingly recognised among the best countries to invest in Europe.
Competitive economy, attractive for FDI
Rotterdam is part of the Randstad region (including Amsterdam and The Hague), which holds 8 million residents and has a GDP exceeding €500 billion. This region is highly attractive for foreign direct investment (FDI). Renowned platform fDi Intelligence ranks Rotterdam #5 among large European cities, with high marks for connectivity, economic potential, business friendliness and human capital and lifestyle. The city’s strong Rotterdam GDP and growing reputation as a Rotterdam innovation city further reinforce its position as a leading economic sector of Europe. The Netherlands also consistently tops global competitiveness rankings, scoring high for business efficiency, government efficiency and economic performance.
Supportive government policies and regulations
In Rotterdam, political stability is matched with well-developed, transparent and efficient legal and regulatory frameworks, supporting medium and long-term investment decisions. National and local governments support entrepreneurship, offering a competitive tax climate and incentives along with flexible employment laws. Innovation, sustainability and digitalisation are at the centre of policies and programs and measures are in place to attract foreign investment, simplify administrative procedures and reduce bureaucracy.
International business and trade hub
As a global hub for international business and trade, Rotterdam is a dynamic city with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and thriving international business communities. The Dutch are known for their multi-lingual skills and have highest English proficiency in the world, which means that companies can easily doing business in English. As part of the European Union (EU), companies in Rotterdam benefit from a range of EU trade agreements which creates a favorable and open business environment. Along with a wide range of professional business services this makes Rotterdam and The Netherlands one of the best locations for doing business.
Key stats
The following statistics depict the years 2022-2025. Source: : CBS Statline, IMF
GDP in EUR
€ 1.09 trillion (€ 1,089,969 million)
The Netherlands (#6 in Europe, #18 Globally)€ 200 billion
Province of South Holland (2022)€ 89 billion
Greater Rotterdam Region (COROP Rijnmond) (2022)
About us
We are the official Investment Promotion Agency for the Rotterdam region. From location advice and fact-finding trips to connecting you with partners and networks, we help you start and grow your business.
