Knowledge economy and innovation

EZ aims to make the Netherlands one of the most attractive knowledge economies for innovative development. That is why the government, despite the difficult budgetary situation, is investing € 800 million in education and knowledge. But money alone is not enough. It is also a question of what trade and industry and knowledge institutions can do themselves to contribute to a greater innovative capacity. A coherent strategy and the input of all parties involved is therefore essential.

Competition and dynamic

Up until now, it has always been assumed that consumers want and need greater freedom of choice. However, a number of preconditions must be satisfied before the consumer can play this role in the market process: the consumer must be encouraged to firmly establish its position as a genuine market party. That is why the Ministry of Economic Affairs is improving, among other things, the information supply to the consumer by expanding the consumer website www.consuwijzer.nl. To promote competition, the regulation of market forces is being strengthened. This means, for example, a bigger role for the Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa).

Room to do business

Successful companies are at the basis of a healthy economic growth and sufficient employment. Today's start-ups and fast-growing businesses are the successful companies of the future. That is why the ministry of Economic Affairs strives to make the Dutch business climate as attractive and encouraging as possible for domestic and foreign-owned companies.