News

Dutch company bankruptcies continued to decline in July, with 266 businesses declared bankrupt, according to CBS. While insolvencies fell across several sectors, hospitality still recorded a relatively high bankruptcy rate despite a sharp year-on-year drop.

Dry conditions have prompted a groundwater ban near several protected nature areas in southeastern Drenthe. Water authorities say the measure is needed to prevent lasting damage as rainfall shortages continue to worsen, while neighbouring regions are also introducing restrictions.

Farmers who drove tractors on the A31 after a protest against nitrogen policy will receive fines, police have confirmed. However, no action was taken during a separate blockade of the N35, where authorities said the demonstration remained orderly and posed no safety risk.

The Netherlands is preparing for another period of intense heat, with temperatures expected to climb to 35C later this week. Authorities have expanded the National Heat Plan and are urging extra care for vulnerable people as hot conditions persist.

Hundreds of thousands of travellers who signed up for NS’s discounted summer rail pass will soon see their monthly costs rise sharply. The temporary €49 subscription is ending and will automatically switch to a standard plan costing €127.95 per month.

Police have arrested a man and a woman over graffiti and vandalism linked to opposition to a planned asylum reception centre in Engelen. The case comes amid months of unrest, protests and other incidents connected to the controversial project.

The Netherlands is facing continued drought, with little rain forecast for the rest of August and the national rainfall deficit expected to exceed 300 millimetres. Dry conditions are also affecting neighbouring countries, prompting measures to manage water shortages and transport disruptions.

Inflation in the Netherlands increased to 3.2% in July, slightly higher than initially estimated. Rising fuel, energy and import costs pushed prices up, while slower growth in housing costs helped limit the increase.