This week, Inverness Chamber of Commerce led a trade mission to the Netherlands, accompanied by a dynamic group of Scottish companies united by a shared ambition: to explore new business opportunities and partnerships between our two nations.
The programme offered a rich blend of workshops, networking events, and cultural experiences designed to give delegates a meaningful introduction to the Dutch market.
Sarah Findlay, International Trade Manager at Inverness Chamber, reflected on the week, “This has been an incredibly rewarding experience. We’ve seen new connections form – not just with the Dutch market, but also among our own delegates. It’s inspiring to witness global opportunities emerge alongside homegrown collaboration between like-minded Scottish businesses. Inverness Chamber is committed to supporting companies on their journey to international expansion, and we’re excited to continue working with these businesses as they build on the relationships formed during this mission.
“And we’re already seeing tangible results. One company in our delegation has secured two new contracts in the Netherlands, and others are confident that opportunities will follow.”
Over three days, we visited Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, participating in a packed itinerary that offered valuable insights into doing business in the Netherlands.
In Amsterdam, we met with the team at RSM, who provided a thorough overview of Dutch tax procedures, including VAT regulations, indirect tax, and compliance requirements. The session also addressed key challenges faced by UK companies entering the market and offered practical guidance on overcoming them.
In The Hague, delegates engaged with InnovationQuarter – the regional economic development agency for The Hague and Rotterdam. This interactive session highlighted the openness of the Dutch business environment, explored partnership opportunities and provided direct business contacts for several of the delegates in sectors such as Energy & Renewables, Food & Drink, Cyber Security, and Digital Technology.
The first day concluded with a private dinner at the historic Hotel des Indes, where we were joined by Philippe Gaulard, Senior Trade Advisor at the UK’s Department for Business & Trade in the Netherlands. Colin Marr, Chief Executive of Inverness Chamber, led roundtable discussions on the mission’s objectives, the increasing appeal of the Dutch market to Scottish firms, and how the Department can support businesses in their export journey.
Day two was shaped around sector-specific activities. One group attended the World Hydrogen Summit, connecting with international peers and hearing from industry experts. Another visited Rotterdam’s iconic Markthal food hall, meeting with the centre’s Marketing Manager and local entrepreneurs, while enjoying classic Dutch delicacies like bitterballen and stroopwafels. The third group toured Amsterdam’s Johan Cruyff Stadium, home of Ajax FC, followed by a discussion with the Cruyff Foundation about potential partnerships that support inclusive youth sport initiatives.
On our final day, we heard from the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce about the process of establishing a legal entity in the country. The session outlined the practical support available through the Dutch Chamber network, reinforcing how accessible and well-supported market entry can be for Scottish firms.
The message throughout the mission was clear: the Netherlands is a welcoming, collaborative, and globally minded market. The enthusiasm and openness shown by the organisations we met was matched by the ambition of our Scottish delegates.
Next, our focus turns to supporting these businesses as they develop their market research and pursue specific opportunities in the Netherlands. This trade mission marks only the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey.
This in-person mission to the Netherlands was part of the Scottish Government’s international trade programme, supported by the Scottish Chambers of Commerce. To learn more about future trade missions or connect with our International team, email: international@inverness-chamber.co.uk