How does Brexit affect businesses in the Netherlands?

Published by:
Netherlands Chamber of Commerce, KVK
Netherlands Chamber of Commerce, KVK
Netherlands Enterprise Agency, RVO
Netherlands Enterprise Agency, RVO
Statistics Netherlands, CBS
Statistics Netherlands, CBS

The UK is now a third country, and that means there are changes for entrepreneurs in the Netherlands doing business with UK clients or suppliers. Find out what they are.

Brexit: trade agreement and new partnership

Since Brexit, there is no longer free movement of people and goods between the EU and the UK. The EU and the UK have reached a trade agreement on a new partnership. This means there are new rules for travelling and doing business. Read about the key points of the trade agreement. The full text of the trade agreement can be found on the EU website.

Customs procedures

Since 1 January 2021 there have been revised customs procedures between the EU and the UK. From 1 January 2022, customs requirements have become more stringent. The Border Target Operating Model explains how the UK government is gradually introducing the new import rules and border controls.

Prepare your shipments carefully. That way, you can avoid delays. Also consider if you will be handling the administration for the Customs Administration of the Netherlands yourself, or if you will be outsourcing. Always arrange the following matters:

Stay up to date with British customs procedures with the Border Target Operating Model.

Business aspects & sector information

Learn more about international business on Business.gov.nl.

Stay informed about doing business with the UK

There are still several platforms offering the latest information on Brexit and doing business with the United Kingdom.

The Netherlands Chamber of Commerce KVK offers information on doing business with the UK.

You can find information on doing business with the UK on the RVO website (in Dutch).

If you import or export goods to and from the UK, Dutch Customs has prepared a toolkit that tells you what to do on this side of the North Sea.

New rules apply to things like travel and doing business with Europe. Find the latest information for your situation on the GOV.uk website.

The British government provides the Keep Business Moving website to help EU businesses deal with the new situation. It tells you what the rules will be in the UK for EU businesses exporting to, or importing from, the UK.

The Get ready for Brexit website is a joint initiative of Dutch shipping companies. Despite its name, it still offers up-to-date information on how to transport goods to and from the UK.

Are you, or do you employ, a UK national or frontier worker? Find out how to ensure the residence and travel papers are in order.

Statistics: import and export of goods

Value of goods imported to the Netherlands from the United Kingdom and of goods exported from the Netherlands to the United Kingdom.

Questions relating to this article?

Please contact the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce, KVK