Indonesia formally gained its independence in 1949, and Suriname became independent in 1975. The Dutch economy is based on private enterprise. The government plays a significant economic role through the many permit requirements and regulations pertaining to almost every aspect of economic activity. Services, which account for more than half of the national income, are primarily in transport and financial areas, such as banking and insurance. Clothing needs are similar to those of Seattle, Washington.
Medical facilities are good.
Community sanitation is comparable to standards in US cities. Facilities are good for local and long-distance use. Amsterdam and The Hague are six time zones ahead of eastern standard time. Good public transportation by bus and streetcar is available in the cities and serves principal sectors of the city as well as the suburbs. Most Dutch cities are connected by rail, and almost all regions of the Netherlands are accessible by good public transportation.