News

German chemical leader BASF has announced price increases of up to 30 per cent for cleaning product ingredients as the conflict in Iran disrupts global supply chains. Rising costs for energy and raw materials are forcing manufacturers to adjust their pricing, which may soon affect the cost of household brands. Other major chemical firms are also reporting similar spikes in the prices of animal feed and industrial rubber.

Jumbo has issued a precautionary recall for its own-brand frozen green beans after two customers reported finding dead mice in their packets. While the supermarket chain maintains there is no threat to health, it has launched an investigation with its supplier. Customers who feel uneasy about their recent purchases are being encouraged to return the items for a full refund.

The research institute Imec has received a groundbreaking new machine from ASML that will allow for the development of the world's smallest chips. This installation in Leuven aims to pioneer the next generation of hardware for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. Experts expect the system to be fully operational by the end of 2026.

Newly released data reveals that thousands of voters across the Brainport region turned to digital guides to prepare for today's local elections.

ING plans to cut about 1,250 jobs worldwide as it increases the use of digital tools and AI. The bank says automation will allow it to handle more work without higher costs. Some roles in the Netherlands may be replaced as technology takes on more tasks.

With municipal elections taking place across the Netherlands, researchers and regulators are raising fresh concerns about AI-generated disinformation, biased voting chatbots, and foreign interference targeting local politics for the first time. The tactics are new, but the goal is familiar: to shape what voters see, feel, and ultimately decide. Whether this digital pressure changes the result remains to be seen, but the infrastructure behind it is already in place.

The Dutch rail sector is facing a sharp decline in technical staff, with many mechanics nearing retirement. ProRail warns that delays, safety risks, and higher costs could follow. Train passengers are likely to notice the impact through ongoing maintenance disruptions.

Maxima hospital has replaced traditional wired sensors with a wireless belt to monitor the health of premature infants. The new technology is designed to protect delicate skin and make it easier for parents to hold their babies during intensive care.