Executive briefing “Cross-Border Business between the Netherlands & France”
PwC Nederland and the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie des Pays-Bas en France recently hosted the executive briefing “Cross-Border Business between the Netherlands & France” at the Netherlands’ Ambassador Residence in Paris. The event brought together business leaders and policy experts to discuss the current state and future of Franco-Dutch economic relations.
We extend our sincere thanks to all participants, and especially to the speakers whose expertise shaped the discussion:
- H.E. Jan Versteeg, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to France;
- Jan Willem Velthuijsen, Professor of Economics at Rijksuniversiteit Groningen;
- Edward Feitsma, Senior Economist at VNO-NCW;
- Maarten de Bruijn, President of the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie des Pays-Bas en France;
- Fay Govers and Jan-Willem Thoen from PwC Nederland.
Key Takeaways from the Briefing
Economic Outlook
Franco-Dutch Business Climate
While global uncertainty persists, economic growth continues. Europe, however, faces urgent challenges—particularly in productivity, technological adoption, and the shift toward digital and green transitions.
In the Netherlands, post-election conditions have resulted in a “caretaker” government. Discussions emphasized the importance of a stable and attractive investment environment for international businesses.
The Franco-Dutch trade relationship remains robust, with machinery, chemicals, and food products standing out as major sectors.
Tax and Compliance Developments
Shared Opportunities and Challenges
PwC Nederland presented key updates on EU and Dutch regulatory initiatives, including anti-avoidance directives (ATAD), expanded reporting requirements (DAC 6–9), and new sustainability and transparency obligations such as CSRD and CBAM.
Energy transition, demographic shifts in the workforce, and the accelerating role of AI were central themes. The discussions highlighted the need for continued cross-border cooperation in innovation and technology to support long-term shared prosperity.
We warmly thank our partners, sponsors, and all contributors for their engagement throughout the session and during the networking cocktail déjeunatoire.
We look forward to continuing to strengthen Franco-Dutch collaboration in the months to come.