The Italy–Netherlands Business Forum brings together businesses, institutions and stakeholders from both countries to foster new opportunities for dialogue, cooperation and business development.
The event forms part of the fifth Van Wittel/Vandvitteli Roundtable, organised by the Italian and Dutch Ministries of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with ICE - Italian Trade Agency and with the support of ITA - Italian Trade Agency.
It also contributes to the joint efforts to promote Italy’s economic and business system, aimed at fostering opportunities for institutional dialogue and business-to-business engagement, in light of the recent Framework Agreement between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) and Unioncamere, supporting the internationalisation of Italian businesses.
The event provides a valuable opportunity to explore the opportunities offered by the Dutch market and to develop new relationships between Italian and Dutch businesses.
An opportunity to build new connections
The Forum aims to bring together businesses, institutions and economic stakeholders, creating a favourable environment for the development of partnerships and new business opportunities.
The day will combine institutional sessions, networking opportunities and thematic discussions focusing on some of the sectors with the greatest potential for cooperation between Italy and the Netherlands.
Why the Netherlands?
The Netherlands represents a strategic market for Italian businesses, thanks to the strength of its economy, its strong international outlook and its privileged logistical position at the heart of Europe.
Between January and May 2026, the Netherlands confirmed its position as the fifth-largest destination market for Italian exports. Trade relations between the two countries have also recorded significant growth: in 2025, bilateral trade reached €58.2 billion, an increase of 5.9% compared with the previous year.
For Italian businesses, the Dutch market therefore offers opportunities that extend beyond trade alone, thanks to an ecosystem that is particularly conducive to innovation, technology, logistics and industrial cooperation.
An international ecosystem for innovation
With its strategic location and world-class logistics infrastructure, the Netherlands is one of Europe's leading hubs for international trade.
The Port of Rotterdam, the continent's largest seaport, is one of the most important logistics hubs for access to European markets.
Alongside this, the country has a particularly dynamic technology and industrial ecosystem, with expertise and investment in electronics, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.
These are precisely the areas at the heart of the Forum: sectors in which combining Italian expertise with Dutch know-how can generate new business and development opportunities.
The programme
7 October 2026 · Amersfoort
- 09:00
Opening session and roundtable discussion with experts, chaired by IAI and the Clingendael Institute.
- 13:00
Networking lunch and institutional opening session of the Forum.
- Following the opening session
Thematic sessions focusing on:
- Maritime sector
Technologies, infrastructure and solutions for a strategic and highly international sector.
- Innovation and technology
From electronics and semiconductors to technological innovation and artificial intelligence: expertise and technologies driving industrial transformation.
The day will also provide an opportunity for businesses and economic stakeholders from both countries to network, fostering dialogue and the development of new professional relationships.
An opportunity for Italian businesses
Taking part in the Forum means gaining access to an international ecosystem and developing a closer understanding of the Dutch market, technologies and opportunities for cooperation.
The event is designed for businesses interested in:
- Understanding the market
Gaining insights into trends, opportunities and developments in the Dutch market.
- Building relationships
Connecting with local businesses, institutions and stakeholders.
- Developing business opportunities
Identifying potential partnerships and new commercial opportunities.
- Exploring innovation
Sharing expertise and perspectives in high-potential technology sectors.
Join the Italy–Netherlands Business Forum
Amersfoort, 7 October 2026
An opportunity to discover, connect and develop new opportunities in the Dutch market.
Interested businesses can submit their application to participate via the online registration form by 30 September 2026.
Download the information circular.
Further information
Europe and Africa Office
Email: europa.africa@ice.it
Tel.: +39 06 5992 6892 / 6459.