The Netherlands British Chamber of Commerce is pleased to publish the NBCC Barometer 2026, its first comprehensive assessment of the economic relationship between the United Kingdom and the Netherlands from the perspective of businesses operating across both markets.
The report combines economic, policy and geopolitical analysis with the results of a survey completed by our members across sectors including logistics, technology, professional services, manufacturing, financial services and agri-food.
A resilient relationship facing practical challenges
The Barometer finds that the UK and the Netherlands remain natural economic partners, supported by deep trade and investment links and complementary strengths in technology, professional services, manufacturing, logistics, life sciences and energy.
Brexit-related friction also remains a significant operational challenge:
- 53% of respondents report a negative or mostly negative impact from Brexit-related friction;
- 43% encountered market-access barriers during the previous 12 months;
- customs procedures, SPS requirements, regulatory divergence and mobility barriers continue to create additional costs and complexity.
Strong support for practical cooperation
The survey demonstrates clear support for closer and more practical UK–EU cooperation.
A total of 85% of respondents were favourable to the UK rejoining the EU Customs Union, while only 1% were unfavourable. In addition, 80% identified easier business travel and worker mobility as a priority, while nearly 60% highlighted mutual recognition of professional qualifications.
The message from businesses is practical: companies want political momentum to translate into reduced friction, greater predictability and better conditions for cross-border trade and investment.
A forward-looking growth agenda
Despite the challenges, businesses continue to identify substantial opportunities for future UK–Netherlands cooperation:
- AI and digital technology: 56%
- Innovation and new products: 47%
- Sustainability and ESG: 40%
- International expansion: 40%
In the context of growing geopolitical uncertainty, trusted economic partnerships are also becoming increasingly important. 84% of respondents identified geoeconomic confrontation as a major risk, reinforcing the role of UK–EU and UK–Netherlands cooperation in strengthening economic resilience.
The Barometer’s central conclusion is clear: the UK–Netherlands relationship remains strong and resilient, but under strain. Businesses remain committed to both markets, while calling for practical progress on customs, SPS, mobility, professional qualifications and regulatory cooperation.
The NBCC would like to thank Rabobank, FGS Global, PwC Netherlands, Vialto and Feedback Consumer Research, as well as all participating companies, for their valuable contributions.
Read the full report