The Modern Dutch-Japanese Relations: Mutual Benefits

As the previous articles introduced the long-lasting relation between The Netherlands and Japan, and the effects it has on culture, trade, and modern cooperation, this article is aiming to delve into the current benefits between these countries. The long history made it possible for the aforementioned countries to enjoy mutual benefits in the present.

While The Netherlands accommodates over 10,000 Japanese expats and approximately 700 Japanese companies, they enjoy various benefits among a simplified process for visa and fewer requirements for renewing a permanent visa. As The Netherlands values the long history that it has with Japan, this country is becoming more popular among start-ups and students since 2009. The Japanese community in The Netherlands is growing fast and it is considered as one of the best places in Europe to build a start-up especially by using blockchains. Simultaneously, The Netherlands invests money and time into cyber security industry, therefore start-ups that are active in the video gaming domain or rely on the blockchains are supported by the rules and laws regarding cyber security compliance. Another benefit that can be enjoyed by the Japanese expats in The Netherlands lays under the bilateral Treaty of Commerce and Navigation between The Netherlands and Japan since 1912 which states that a Japanese can acquire a Dutch residence permit for the purpose of entrepreneurship in the case the establishment of the business takes place in The Netherlands and 4,500 euro are invested into the Dutch business. To further support SMEs, The Netherlands established various funds that are serving as support to Japanese companies coming into the Dutch market, such as: Creative Industries Fund NL (for design, creative industries, architecture, digital culture), Mondriaan Fund (for visual arts), Performing Arts Fund (for theatre, dance, music, opera), Dutch Film Fund, Dutch Foundation for Literature, and Cultural Participation Fund (for communal arts, cooperation, projects with non-professionals). However, companies who are active on different industries than the aforementioned ones are entitled to apply for funding coming from the European Union as well if the company is/will be registered in The Netherlands.

Furthermore, companies that are willing to be stronger connected to the European market are establishing offices or are merging with Dutch companies in The Netherlands. Japan finds The Netherlands as a well-positioned country with several benefits for infrastructure, health system and sustainability. The newest company entering the Dutch market in order to establish its position within the European market is Sekisui, a Japanese manufacturing company whose main producing line consists of foam urethane sleepers. The establishment of the new Sekisui factory in The Netherlands will take place in Roermond, a region within The Netherlands that is very well-connected to Germany’s North Rhine region, along with transport links to the Dutch, Belgian and French ports.