News item | 17-10-2025 | 18:46
The Netherlands is in danger of losing control over its economic future. Talent and capital leave, innovations lag behind and we become too dependent on other countries. Our old strategy of trying to do everything at once means not really winning anywhere. In a world where speed, scale and focus determine who wins, choosing is the only solution to strengthen our jobs, prosperity and independence. That is why the Council of Ministers, at the proposal of Minister Karremans of Economic Affairs, has approved the new industrial policy, in which we focus on the most promising markets for the Netherlands.
The government is thus making a clear choice for the future of the Dutch economy. With this new approach, the current top sector policy will be completed as of January 1, 2026. The new industrial policy focuses on six markets in which we can win worldwide and for which the Netherlands has a strong starting position: semiconductors, biotechnology, defense-related applications (such as 6G, radar, laser satellite communication, quantum), digital services (particularly AI), mechanical engineering and innovative chemistry. This means that we will create programs to strengthen these markets, as has already been done for the semiconductor industry with project Beethoven. For the other business community and the former top sectors, generic innovation schemes such as the WBSO, tax schemes and other financing for sustainability, for example, continue to exist, but there are no or less focused programs. We will also continue to work on a solid foundation for entrepreneurship and growth for all companies that keep the Netherlands running in all markets and sectors.
Minister Karremans: “Due to the major challenges we face, such as a tight labor market, a full power grid and increasing geopolitical tensions, we cannot afford to sit still and not make choices. If we also want to be at the top in 2040, we must dare to choose now. By investing in these six markets where we can really make a difference and really win, we strengthen our security, economic growth and future prosperity. In the end it is very simple: whoever does not choose, loses.”
Focus on everything at once
Countries such as the United States and China invest billions in technology and industry. They attract companies, knowledge and talent and thus build market power. The Netherlands cannot lag behind. The old method in which we spread resources across many sectors and initiatives yields too little. In concrete terms, focus means building programs for the markets, with resources and actions such as:
- People and resources: programs per market, with additional capacity, knowledge and coordination from the government. We look at how we can use resources in a targeted manner. This means: concentrating resources where the greatest opportunities lie.
- Expanding markets: we strengthen ecosystems for the chosen markets and where necessary and possible we stimulate demand, for example through strategic purchasing by the government and the EU, so that innovations have the opportunity to break through more quickly.
- Financing and preconditions: better access to capital, less restrictive rules and solutions for space, grid congestion, infrastructure and permits.
- International strength: The Netherlands is strengthening its market position by stimulating trade, attracting foreign companies and investments, and participating in European programs such as IPCEIs, Horizon Europe and the Net Zero Industry Act.
- Talent and knowledge: profile the Netherlands as a magnet and training place for digital and technical talent, and at the same time invest in fundamental and applied research that has a direct impact on companies.
The six markets
The markets we focus on have been selected for (1) economic potential, (2) strategic economic positioning and (3) contribution to solving social challenges.
- Semiconductors: growing at 8.7% per year and are indispensable for AI, the energy transition and digital security. Has many niches in which the Netherlands has or can obtain a leading position, such as quantum and photonics.
- Biotechnology: has strong niches such as cell and gene therapy (15.4% growth per year) and alternative proteins (14.1% growth), and supplies new medicines, circular materials and contributes to food security.
- Defense-related applications: in particular 6G, radar, laser satellite communication and quantum, and the contribution of these growth markets to solving social challenges.
- Digital services (particularly AI): growing by an average of 16.8% per year and strengthening our digital autonomy, with applications in healthcare, energy and security. Machine construction: such as machines for the agri-food sector (17.1% growth per year), MedTech (5.2% growth per year) and chip machines, and contributes to healthcare solutions, automation and sustainability.
- Innovative chemistry: growing extremely fast, such as biofuels (21.9% per year) and circular, biobased and advanced materials (27% per year), and contributes to sustainability and reducing fossil dependence.
Stronger foundation for all companies
In addition to these priorities, the government is also working on the preconditions that affect all entrepreneurs: better access to financing, less regulatory pressure, solving grid congestion, sufficient space for companies and enough technical and digital talent. That is why we continue to focus on the full breadth of our economy, where there are opportunities to develop new markets and apply technology. By strengthening the overall business climate and knowing what is going on in all sectors, we ensure that all entrepreneurs are part of the economy of tomorrow. In addition, we continue to use mission-driven innovation policy to work with companies on current social challenges.
Investing together in the future
The new industrial policy must ensure an industry that represents at least 15% of GDP in 2030 and joint R&D investments of at least 3% of GDP. The programs per market will be further developed in the coming months. The government is also looking at how additional resources can be released or redistributed. With this course, the Netherlands is opting for speed, focus and effectiveness. In this way we build an economy that creates jobs, secures broad prosperity and prepares us for the markets of tomorrow.