inflation

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.

July became another expensive month, both in the Netherlands and the wider eurozone, driven mainly by another jump in energy prices. Dutch households saw everyday costs increase after June’s brief slowdown, while Eurostat reports that inflation across Europe also picked up as oil and gas became more expensive.

More existing homes entered the Dutch housing market last quarter than ever before, while the average selling price climbed back above €500,000. New‑build supply in the Netherlands is rising, which offers temporary relief. But the homes being delivered do not match what buyers want. With most new projects focused on apartments, demand for ground‑level homes continues to go unmet, the NVM warns.

Inflation in the Netherlands climbed further in May, driven by higher flight costs, holiday demand, and rising energy prices. The increase keeps Dutch inflation above the eurozone average. Economists warn that ongoing geopolitical tensions could push prices up further.

Exports slow and Middle East tensions cloud the outlook, but consumption and several key sectors signal underlying resilience.

Global crop prices have surged to their highest level since 2023, driven by the Iran war, supply disruptions, and extreme weather, raising concerns over rising food costs worldwide.

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.

Owner‑occupied homes in the Netherlands were 5 percent more expensive in March than a year earlier, marking a further easing of price growth. Average prices now exceed €494,600, while sales volumes rose sharply compared to last year.