What Is The Main Industry In The Netherlands?

The economy of the Netherlands has acquired 17th position in terms of the largest economies in the world.

In addition to this, the Swiss International Institute for Management Development announced and ranked the Netherlands as the fifth most competitive economy thriving in the world.

To remain a significant leader in global challenges, the country emphasizes nine particular key sectors.

Agriculture and food sector

The Netherlands is considered one of the top shippers or exporters of agricultural products. However, the most important thing to consider is that it is not because of a single reason.

It acquired this position due to its technologized agricultural sector, favorable location, mild weather conditions, advanced technology in food and agriculture, and high-yielding soil.

The agricultural industry is alone responsible for about 21% of the nations’ total value of exports.

Energy Industry

The energy industry serves as a significant source of national income and employment opportunities for the people.

According to the estimates, 25% of natural gas reserves in the European Union are, in fact from the Netherlands and it is also a key exporter.

Huge natural gas deposits in the Netherlands were brought to light in the year 1959 and have consequently generated a large number of revenues.

The Groningen Gas Field is considered one of the substantial natural gas fields in the country and is located around Slochteren.

However, the country has no other significant mining resources left after its coal industry was shut down in 1947.

Chemical Industry

The chemical industry is one of the key sectors for Netherlands economy. The Netherlands is home to the headquarters of around 19 different major world-leading chemical companies.

In addition to this, the country also contains prominent research institutions, including the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO).

Moreover, the Netherlands is also one of the biggest of Europe’s leading suppliers of chemical products and is an exporter of raw materials as well.

Metallurgy Industry

It is another main industry in the Netherlands, along with being a significant part of the manufacturing sector.

The metallurgy industry has different components such including services, consumables, software, and equipment.

It is probably the only industry that relies on both modern advanced techniques of production as well as conventional or traditional craftsmanship.

Conclusion

In addition to the aforementioned significant industries, the Netherlands has other key industries, such as the Tourism industry. All these industries have together developed the competitive economy of the Netherlands.