Key Facts

GDP (ppp) per CAPITA

$40,400 (2008 est.)

Inflation Rate

2.5% (2008 est.)

Population

16,715,999 (July 2009 est.)

Country Risk Ratings

A2

Ease of Doing Business

26/181

Global Competitiveness

5.41/134

Country Map

View Larger Map

gE Network

There are 70 members in the
gE Network for this country.

Netherlands : Introduction

The Dutch United Provinces declared their independence from Spain in 1579; during the 17th century, they became a leading seafaring and commercial power, with settlements and colonies around the world. After a 20-year French occupation, a Kingdom of the Netherlands was formed in 1815. In 1830 Belgium seceded and formed a separate kingdom. The Netherlands remained neutral in World War I, but suffered invasion and occupation by Germany in World War II. A modern, industrialized nation, the Netherlands is also a large exporter of agricultural products. The country was a founding member of NATO and the EEC (now the EU), and participated in the introduction of the euro in 1999.

Netherlands: De Nederlansche Bank

The Bank of Netherlands is tasked with the implementation of monetary policy and the maintenance of price stability within the European Union. It conducts foreign exchange operations and manages the country's reserves. (Available in Dutch and English)

Netherlands: Amsterdam Stock Exchange (Euronext)

Netherlands: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Ministry provides a wide variety of information: on foreign policy, the Netherlands (both general as well as business specific), news releases, regional policy documents, and cooperation in development as well as in Europe. Site available in Dutch, English, German, French, and Spanish.

Sources:
CIA World Factbook (September 2009)
U.S. Dept. of State Country Background Notes (September 2009)