Europe is the most important market. The production of basic chemicals is very import in the Netherlands. The basic-chemicals business is characterized by large quantities, low prices per unit of weight and relatively low profit margins. The economic conditions in the Netherlands for the production of basic chemicals are favorable. One of the key assets of Holland is its strategic location.
Transportation is facilitated by an excellent infrastructure.
So the requirements of the chemical sector are met easily. In addition to basic chemicals, the Netherlands also produces specialty chemicals. Examples are pigments, crop protectors, soaps, detergents, perfume, scents, flavorings, medicine and paints. In this sector, volumes are relatively small, while profit margins are relatively high. Research in the specialty-chemicals industry is aimed in particular at end products and product applications.