Rotterdam less popular with foreign investors, fewer firms make the move

Rotterdam docks. Photo: F. Berkelaar

Fewer foreign companies invested in Rotterdam in 2017, according to new city council figures.  The number of new foreign ventures in the port city fell to 38 last year from 48 in 2016 while 13 firms expanded or extended their operations, the council said.

The number of jobs created by these companies was unchanged at about 1,000, but the number of indirect jobs fell sharply to 1,800 from 2,400. But investments rose to €538m (€414m) up considerably from the €65m invested in 2015.

Most new companies hailed from Asia and were largely involved in the maritime and offshore sectors. The seaport, largest in Europe, continues to be an important factor for many  new companies.

Last month, the economic affairs ministry said more than 350 foreign firms invested a total of €1.67bn in the Netherlands last year, generating more than 12,500 jobs.

Of those, 143 foreign firms made the move to Amsterdam and its surrounding agencies, bringing 2,700 jobs with them. Foreign firms invested €8.46m in the Utrecht region last year, creating 423 new jobs. In total 16 foreign firms set up operations in the province, almost the same number as in the record year of 2016.

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