Dutch business delegation explores cooperation opportunities in Ningbo

A Dutch business representative shares insights during the conference. [Photo/Yongpai App]

The China (Ningbo)-The Netherlands Business Conference, held in Ningbo on June 18, resulted in nearly 100 million euros ($114.28 million) in preliminary cooperation agreements, marking a new milestone in economic ties between the two sides.

The event brought together more than 30 Dutch business representatives and representatives of around 100 Chinese companies for in-depth discussions. This was the first time a Dutch private business association had arranged for a delegation to visit Ningbo, reflecting growing confidence among Dutch and European businesses in the Chinese market.

The cooperation extended beyond traditional manufacturing to emerging sectors such as new materials, biochar, and biopharmaceuticals. Dutch companies came seeking Chinese partners, products, and technologies, while exploring opportunities to expand into the Chinese market.

Ningbo and the Netherlands enjoy strong industrial complementarity. As the home of Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, the world's busiest cargo port, Ningbo boasts competitive industries in high-end equipment, automotive manufacturing, and new materials. Meanwhile, the Netherlands, with Rotterdam serving as Europe's leading logistics hub, offers Chinese companies a strategic gateway to the European market.

In 2025, bilateral trade between Ningbo and the Netherlands reached $4.53 billion, making the Netherlands Ningbo's second-largest trading partner within the European Union.

The conference also highlighted opportunities for Chinese businesses in Europe's green transition and innovation ecosystem, laying the groundwork for deeper economic cooperation between China and Europe.