The number of companies declared bankrupt in the Netherlands fell again in April, according to preliminary data published by the national statistics office CBS. In total, 355 businesses went bust last month, fifteen fewer than in March.

The number of new bankruptcies peaked at 816 in May 2013 and has followed a broadly downward but fluctuating trend since then.

More bankruptcies were declared in the province of Zuid-Holland than in any other region.

The general trade sector was hardest hit in April, with 73 businesses going bust. Financial institutions followed with 60 bankruptcies.