Goods exports to the United States fall by 25 percent

In the first half of 2026, the Netherlands sold fewer goods to the United States. The value of these exports fell by 4.3 billion euros, which is 25 percent lower than last year. A total of 13.0 billion euros’ worth of Dutch goods went to the United States.

This is because the United States has been imposing an additional import duty on products from the European Union since August 2025. That duty is now 15 percent. Italy (the country in Southern Europe) now ranks fifth among the most important destinations for Dutch exports.

Previously, the United States held that position. Now, 4 percent of all Dutch exports go to the United States. Last year, the figure was still 5.5 percent.

Exports to Italy, by contrast, rose by 1.2 billion euros. Spain is also receiving more Dutch goods. The largest decline is due to the Netherlands sending fewer machines and transport equipment to the United States.

This accounts for a decline of 2.0 billion euros. Exports of chemical products, such as medicines, have also fallen sharply. The decline in this category is 30.5 percent.

There are also fewer exports of medical instruments and other manufactured products. At the same time, the Netherlands is buying more goods from the United States. Their value rose by 19 percent to 27.6 billion euros.

Mineral fuels, such as crude oil, have in particular become much more expensive because of the conflict in the Middle East. As a result, these products now also play a more important role in trade between the Netherlands and the United States.