Trade and economic relations

Trade and economic relations

Both New Zealand and the Netherlands are strong trading nations, deriving much of their prosperity from international trade. Geographic distance plays a part in limiting overall bilateral trade levels, which nonetheless are substantial.

In the year to June 2010, New Zealand merchandise exports to the Netherlands were NZ$467 million. Main items were lamb, apples and aluminium.

In the same period, Dutch exports to New Zealand were NZ$314 million. Main items were industrial machinery and medicines.

In the case of the volume of New Zealand exports to the Netherlands, much depends on whether Dutch or other nearby European ports are used as major entry points to the wider European region.

The perceived strategic location of the Netherlands in Western Europe, its population with strong language and entrepreneurial skills, quality infrastructure and its strong trading background make it an attractive 'Gateway to Europe' for New Zealand companies.

The Netherlands has always been a strong investor overseas and currently is the largest European investor into New Zealand.