The Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK) has updated its guide on doing business with China, offering Dutch companies practical advice for entering or expanding in the Chinese market. According to the guide, China is one of the Netherlands’ largest trading partners. In 2024, Dutch firms imported more than €53 billion worth of goods from China and exported over €30 billion in foodstuffs, specialised machinery and electrical appliances. As the Netherlands serves as a gateway for Chinese goods entering Europe, the guidelines have wide-ranging relevance for bilateral trade.
The guide outlines the basic structure of bilateral trade. Telecommunications equipment, electrical appliances, office machinery and automatic data processing equipment account for most Dutch imports from China. Conversely, prepared foodstuffs and advanced machinery dominate Dutch exports. While China’s economy remains driven by manufacturing and investment, it has become a frontrunner in artificial intelligence, automation and digital payments. The article notes that China still faces overproduction and slower domestic consumption growth, yet it is the world’s second largest economy with intense competition.
KVK highlights significant opportunities in energy, maritime and agrifood sectors. The Netherlands has strong expertise and innovative capacity in these areas and can succeed by offering products or services that China needs but cannot supply itself. The guide points out that Beijing is investing heavily in renewable energy such as hydrogen and in making its ports more sustainable.
To help Dutch firms find reliable partners, KVK advises participating in trade fairs and official trade missions in China. Businesses should verify potential partners through China’s National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System or the Hong Kong Companies Registry, and can request background checks via Dutch embassies. Regularly updating one’s own business registration helps demonstrate credibility. The guide also stresses cultural awareness: building personal relationships and trust often matters more than formal contracts, and negotiations may take place over meals. Because of language barriers, companies should employ interpreters and use Chinese communication platforms such as WeChat.
Regarding payments, transactions are usually settled in renminbi. Chinese companies must obtain foreign exchange approvals from the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, meaning cross border payments take longer. Advance payments and letters of credit are common, and Chinese businesses are reluctant to ship goods on credit. KVK advises always putting agreements in writing, specifying transport responsibilities and using internationally recognised Incotermskvk.nl. Exporters must prepare invoices, transport documents and packing lists, and some products require additional export documents. Imported goods must meet Chinese standards and carry China Compulsory Certification (CCC) marks and commodity codes. Food exporters must register with the Chinese authorities and label products according to Chinese regulations. On the import side, about two thirds of goods imported from China pass through the Netherlands without processing.
The guide recommends using professional logistics service providers familiar with Chinese customs procedures and clarifying Incoterms in contracts. Companies providing services in China need an invitation from a Chinese partner and a work (Z) visa, obtainable via the China Visa Application Service Centre. Tools taken into China for temporary use can be covered by an ATA Carnet to avoid import duties. The Dutch Tax and Customs Administration’s Overseas Services tool helps companies understand value added tax obligations.
Background
China and the Netherlands have cultivated increasingly close economic ties since establishing diplomatic relations. The Netherlands is one of China’s principal European trading partners and investment sources, and Rotterdam acts as a major trans shipment hub for Chinese goods heading into Europe. Both sides are deepening cooperation in green technology, digital innovation and high tech industries. Amid global trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainty, Dutch authorities and business groups emphasise adherence to international trade rules and seek to diversify export markets. KVK’s guide aims to inform companies about regulations, cultural differences and market opportunities, thereby supporting sustainable China Netherlands cooperation.
Closing
By offering detailed guidance on market prospects, partner selection, cultural considerations and regulatory compliance, the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce aims to empower Dutch companies to succeed in China. The Association of Chinese Investment Enterprises in the Netherlands (ACIEN) encourages its members to consult the guide, leverage the complementary strengths of the Dutch and Chinese economies, and pursue cooperative projects in energy, agrifood and maritime sectors while adhering to all relevant laws and standards. Such efforts will help advance healthy and mutually beneficial China–Netherlands economic relations.
This article is based on public reporting from the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK). Original source: https://www.kvk.nl/en/international/doing-business-with-china/
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