The Netherlands’ trade surplus widened to EUR 8.3 billion in August 2026, up from EUR 7.5 billion in the same month a year earlier. Exports increased by 13.2% year-on-year to EUR 68.8 billion, supported by stronger shipments to both EU countries (+12.4%) and non-EU markets (+14.4%). By commodity group, the largest export gains were recorded in mineral fuels and lubricants (+42.5%), machinery and transport equipment (+27.2%), beverages and tobacco (+10.5%), and animal and vegetable oils (+9.3%).
Imports also grew by 13.2%, reaching EUR 60.5 billion, reflecting higher purchases from both EU partners (+8.2%) and non-EU suppliers (+17.4%). Import growth was particularly pronounced for mineral fuels and lubricants (+39.1%), machinery and transport equipment (+18.4%), raw materials (+17.4%), and chemical products (+16.2%).
Over the January–August period, the Dutch trade surplus amounted to EUR 75.6 billion. During this time, exports rose by 4.7% compared with the same period a year earlier, while imports were up by 5.7%.
