Unprecedented exodus of Dutch industry. Even Germany and Belgium are cheaper
The Netherlands faces a growing threat of industrial companies relocating to other countries.
Published on December 16, 2024
The Netherlands is at risk of more and more industrial companies leaving the country. This warning comes from Koos van Haasteren, director of Chemelot, in an interview with the AD. He speaks of an impending “unprecedented exodus” within Dutch industry. The Chemelot site in Limburg is home to dozens of chemical companies. Among other things, plastics, building materials, and semi-finished products for the production of medicines and electronics are made here.
According to Van Haasteren, the Dutch industry is increasingly unable to cope with international competition. This is due not only to countries such as China but also to competition from neighboring countries such as Belgium and Germany.
High energy costs
In particular, the high cost of electricity and network connections in the Netherlands is a problem. Chemical production processes are very energy intensive, and the power demand is increasing as companies such as Chemelot seek to move away from fossil fuels such as gas and oil.
In addition, Chemelot is concerned about the infrastructure needed to switch to climate-neutral production. In particular, Van Haasteren points to the delay in the construction of a hydrogen pipeline, the so-called Delta-Rhine Corridor.
National hydrogen network
This week the House of Representatives is debating the construction of a national hydrogen network. Van Haasteren is skeptical about the progress. According to him, we must realize that we risk losing unique knowledge and valuable production facilities. The impact would be greater than closing the mines.
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