The Netherlands - Japan’s gateway to Europe for over 400 years

Introduction

The year 2009 marks the 400th anniversary of business relations and longstanding friendship between Japan and the Netherlands. The beginning of the relationship between our countries dates back to 1609, when Tokugawa Ieyasu issued the first official trade permit to the Netherlands. As was the case 400 years ago, the Netherlands still serves as a principal gateway to Europe for Japanese businesses.

The Netherlands has traditionally been known as a centre for international trade and business. Not in the least part because of its favourable tax regime applicable to holding and financing companies, its extensive tax treaty network and the cooperative attitude of the tax authorities.

As the European Union progresses to further harmonisation, the Netherlands is more than keen to maintain its good standing in the business world. The Dutch tax system fully satisfies the requirements of both the EU and the OECD. According to the Global Competitiveness Report 2009-2010 recently published by the World Economic Forum, the Netherlands is placed in the top 10, and continues to be one of the best places in the world to do business. The Netherlands generally receives good marks on its political stability and effectiveness, as well as for its policy towards foreign investment.