News

Philips has returned to profit for the first time in four years, helped by cost savings and steady sales despite higher US import duties. The company is now focusing on further efficiency gains and greater use of AI in both internal processes and medical products. It expects North America to remain its strongest growth market in the coming year.

Rivers, lakes, ditches, and canals are increasingly showing traces of new chemicals, with concentrations of some substances now above permitted levels. This is a...

Rabobank has reported its second-highest annual profit, despite setting aside more money for potential loan losses linked to global trade tensions. The bank says customers are largely coping well so far, even as it prepares for possible economic disruption. Its strong capital position has opened the door to future growth and acquisitions.

The EU has opened a major semiconductor test line at IMEC in Belgium, supported by €2.5 billion in public and private investment. The pilot line will give researchers and companies access to cutting-edge technology as part of Europe’s push to expand its share of global chip production. It is the largest project launched under the EU’s Chips Act

Travellers arriving at Schiphol on Tuesday may face long delays as customs officers plan extra checks during a protest for higher pay. The action forms part of a wider push by civil servants who say the zero‑wage policy will erode their purchasing power. Recent strikes in the prison sector show the unrest is spreading.

Parents in the Netherlands have reported illnesses in children linked to recalled baby food from Danone and Nestlé. Health authorities are currently investigating these reports and checking additional products for the presence of a toxic substance.

The D66 and CDA have finalised their list of ministers and state secretaries for the new government under Rob Jetten. The appointments bring together experienced civil servants, former parliamentarians, and local leaders to tackle pressing issues like the nitrogen crisis and climate change. With a multi-billion euro fund restored for agriculture and a firm focus on digital sovereignty, the new cabinet is preparing to take office.

The European Commission has escalated its antitrust case against Meta over new WhatsApp rules that block rival AI tools from reaching users. The EU has issued a formal Statement of Objections and is weighing interim measures that could force Meta to reopen access while the investigation continues. The outcome could reshape how major tech platforms are allowed to control access to AI services in Europe.