FX.co ★ Dutch Q2 GDP Growth Beats Forecasts

The Dutch economy grew by 0.4% quarter-on-quarter in Q2 2026, slightly faster than the 0.3% expansion in Q1 and above economists’ forecasts of 0.2%. The upside surprise was largely driven by domestic demand. Household consumption increased by 0.5%, supported by higher spending on passenger cars, as well as on food, beverages and tobacco. Business investment also rose by 0.5%, reflecting stronger expenditure on electronic equipment, which more than offset weaker investment in construction. Government consumption added further support, climbing 0.4% on the back of higher healthcare spending and increased public sector wages. In contrast, net trade weighed modestly on growth: exports advanced by 1.2%, but imports grew more quickly, by 1.4%. On the production side, the fastest expansion was recorded in trade, accommodation and food services, and transportation and storage, while manufacturing also posted solid gains, particularly in the machinery and petroleum segments.