Dutch industry had to write off €15bn in unpaid bills last year, the equivalent of €900 per citizen, according to research by debt collection agency Intrum Justitia, published in the Telegraaf.

The research also shows the government takes an average 47 days to pay a bill, while industry takes 43 days. Consumers are much faster, taking an average 33 days to pay.
Just 55% of bills are paid within the 30-day limit which most firms ask for in their terms and conditions, Intrum Justitia said.