Economy

ING expects the eurozone’s trade surplus to fall sharply this year because of the Middle East war and rising competition from China, with the bloc at risk of a sizeable trade deficit in 2026.

ABN AMRO has cut its growth outlook for the Dutch do‑it‑yourself sector to 2 percent in 2026, down from 3 percent, as the Iran war, higher inflation, and weaker consumer confidence weigh on home‑improvement spending. More homeowners are taking on small repairs themselves, while rising costs and online competition squeeze margins at DIY chains like Hornbach, Gamma, Karwei, and Praxis.

CLA wages in the Netherlands rose 4.5% in the first quarter of 2026, CBS reports. Wage growth is slowing, but real wages remain positive for the tenth quarter in a row, with private‑sector employees seeing the strongest increases.

Fuel expert Derk Foolen says the recommended price for Euro95 may rise above €2.50 on Tuesday as the conflict in the Middle East pushes oil prices higher. Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on key oil sites are adding pressure to the market. Petrol and diesel prices are now close to record levels.

DHL Express says a strike by FNV and CNV may cause delays for customers on Monday. The unions argue that the company’s wage offer is too low, while DHL Express insists its proposal is reasonable. The company wants the unions to resume talks.

TenneT has sharply increased its investment in the Dutch and German electricity grid, even as many projects face delays. The operator says new measures should speed up expansion, while several major upgrades were completed ahead of schedule. Additional funding for TenneT Germany is also expected to be finalised in the coming months.

Crop prices are rising as the conflict in Iran disrupts global trade routes and increases demand for biofuels. Higher energy and fertiliser costs are adding pressure on farmers, while some countries may begin stockpiling key staples. Economists warn that the longer the disruption continues, the greater the risk of inflation.

Emirates has halted all flights to and from Dubai, just a day after announcing plans to resume services. KLM has also delayed its return to several Middle Eastern destinations due to the conflict in Iran. Both airlines say they are monitoring the situation closely as regional airspace remains restricted.