Health
Whooping cough cases surged after the pandemicÂ
Recent research reveals that over a third of Dutch children were infected with whooping cough following the lifting of pandemic restrictions. While vaccines continue to prevent severe illness, health officials are now calling for closer monitoring as immunity levels fluctuate.
Career
Four Veldhoven councillors receive royal honours
Four dedicated local politicians in Veldhoven have been awarded royal honours for their extensive service to the community. The group includes some of the town's longest-serving representatives, ranging from experienced alderpeople to well-known local figures.
Business
ASML CEO Fouquet calls on Prime Minister Jetten
Prime Minister Rob Jetten has met with ASML CEO Christophe Fouquet to discuss the future of the Dutch semiconductor industry. The talks focused on maintaining a world-class business climate and the strategic importance of the Eindhoven region.
Environment/sustainability
Battery storage becomes more attractive amid power price swings
Daily swings in electricity prices are making battery storage more appealing, according to Energieopwek.nl. Renewable power output rose sharply in the first quarter, but fossil fuels still drive up prices during peak demand. Storing cheap power for later use could help offset these costs.
Economy
More than 6.8 million tax returns filed so far
More than 6.8 million people have already filed their tax returns, slightly ahead of last year’s pace. Most returns are submitted online, with the deadline set for 1 May. The Tax and Customs Administration has also outlined when filers can expect a response.
Economy
Prices of building plots rise sharply due to land shortages
Prices for building land across the Netherlands continued to rise strongly in 2025, driven by limited availability. Statistics Netherlands reports large differences between housing types and regions. Some provinces saw sharp increases, while others experienced only modest growth.
Business
Odido’s mobile data usage exceeds that of its rivals
Odido has overtaken its main competitors in mobile data usage following the launch of a new home internet service. Total data consumption in the Netherlands has nearly doubled since 2022, even as traditional calling and texting lose popularity. While the provider currently leads the market, future reports will reveal if a recent data breach has affected its customer numbers.
Environment/sustainability
Dutch parliament supports age increase for legal firework displays
The Dutch parliament has voted to raise the minimum age for legal firework organisers from 16 to 18 years old. This decision comes as the country prepares for a broader ban on consumer fireworks during the next New Year celebrations. Additionally, new guidelines will encourage local councils to keep approved displays away from wildlife habitats to protect nature.
