China must address its large trade surplus, but the Netherlands and Europe also need to take action. That is the conclusion of Minister Sjoerd Sjoerdsma (Foreign Trade, D66) after completing a three‑day economic mission in China. At the end of the visit, the minister said he could draw several clear conclusions. The Netherlands is well‑regarded in China, “both by the government and the business community”, and Chinese companies are keen to work with Dutch firms.
Innovation and Speed
What struck him most was China’s “incredible innovative power and the speed at which it is happening”. According to Sjoerdsma, Dutch entrepreneurs will need to find ways to match that pace. He sees “important lessons” for the business community, particularly in fast‑developing sectors. He pointed to China’s automotive industry as an example. The sector “has really made a huge leap”, he emphasised. Companies may receive state support, “but the technology is definitely there”. He stressed that it is important for the Netherlands to remain involved in such developments.
Government’s Role
Sjoerdsma believes the Dutch government must create the right conditions for businesses to keep up. At the same time, he questions whether the government is in close enough contact with companies to understand their needs and to know when policy adjustments are required.
Context
The minister travelled to China with seventeen companies. On the first day, the delegation met in Beijing with its Chinese counterpart, Wang Wentao. Dutch companies were able to present their concerns and questions directly to Wang during a roundtable session.
The visit came at a sensitive moment. The EU and China are trying to avoid a tariff war. Brussels wants China to reduce exports to the EU while allowing more European products into the Chinese market. The current influx of Chinese goods is putting pressure on companies and jobs across Europe.
@anp | NEWSBRAINPORT
