The Netherlands back in the top three EU ranking digital economy | News item
News item | 28-07-2022 | 13:30
The Netherlands has returned to the top three of the previous after three years, delivered Index digital economy and society (DESI) of the EU. Companies and the government are making additional investments, via the National Growth Fund, for example, in the digitization of the manufacturing and other industries, in research and the application of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), microelectronics and chips, and quantum and cloud applications. The Dutch fixed and mobile internet remains world class. In the ranking, the Netherlands is third behind the new leader Finland and Denmark.
Minister Micky Adriaansens (Economic Affairs and Climate): “Digitalization, together with sustainability, is one of the two major changes of our time. Private and public investment in this area is necessary to stimulate innovation – and thus jobs and income – and to reduce dependence on (semi) countries outside the EU. Good to see that our improvements have already improved the Dutch position. But to remain an active commitment from companies and government: when it comes to education, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and a better functioning digital market.”
Dutch fixed and mobile network infrastructure of excellent quality
the DESI ranks European countries in terms of the quality of the digital infrastructure, the way in which businesses do business digitally, the use of digital applications by and skills of the inhabitants and the digital services provided by the government itself.
The Dutch digital infrastructure via fixed and mobile networks continues to rank second in the EU. 91% of the Dutch expenditure already has access to fast fixed broadband internet (≥1 Gigabit per second) via cable or fiber optic, the long term for the entire EU is to have this realized by 2030. The availability of 5G mobile internet is also ahead of the European medium. In May, an advisory committee concluded that the Netherlands can also start using the 3.5 Gigahertz (GHz) frequency band above nationally in 2023.
Business is making more use of technology and online sales
Over the years, Dutch entrepreneurs have been making more use of digital technologies and making full use of the opportunities offered by online sales. With programs too My Digital Business is also actively encouraged.
Almost 15% of total turnover in Dutch SMEs comes from online activities. With the use of social media, cloud applications and the use of data, the business community is even ahead of the EU. Gradual rise of the Netherlands to position number four in the EU. Dutch investments in artificial intelligence (AI), quantum and microelectronics are crucial for developing the Dutch economic position and thus strengthening the overall growth of Europe.
Compared to other EU countries, the Dutch remain well above average in digital skills. The same applies to the supply and quality of digital government services. The number of available ICT specialists continues to grow, but does not yet meet market demand. When it comes to the number of ICT graduates, the Netherlands scores slightly below average in the EU.