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The Netherlands climbs to 7th place on World Economic Forum’s Global Enabling Trade Index

The Netherlands climbs to 7^th place on World Economic Forum’s Global Enabling Trade Index

Released today, the Global Enabling Trade Report 2012 – compiled by the World Economic Forum (WEF) – shows the extent to which 132 economies make international trade possible. For the Netherlands, this survey on behalf of the WEF is annually coordinated by INSCOPE Research for Innovation from Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM). Below are some of the main findings:

Over the past two years, the Netherlands has risen from 10^th to 7^th place on the ranking – thanks to high scores on such matters as the quality and availability of ICT infrastructure and logistics; excellent port, air-transport and railway infrastructure; very well-developed maritime connectivity; plus efficient and transparent border administration.

 As in previous years, the top spots on the Enabling Trade Index are occupied by countries with open economies and relatively small home markets that have a strong interest in efficient and extensive international trade.

Singapore (No. 1), Hong Kong, Denmark and Sweden once again turn out to be the countries that have developed the most successful institutions, policies and services benefitting unimpeded flow of goods and services across borders. This year, the traditional top performers are followed hot on their heels by New Zealand.

Higher trade barriers have been erected in the United States, China, India and Russia, whereas many countries in Southeast Asia have been promoting international trade.

The Netherlands is still performing relatively poorly with regard to the complexity of import tariffs; protection against economic crime; import and export costs per container; availability of business finance; as well as strict rules for hiring foreign workers.

For the complete report (in Dutch), please click here.

Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University is consistently ranked amongst the top 10 business schools in Europe. It is located in the international port city of Rotterdam where core Dutch values of openness, flexibility and acceptance of diversity have attracted businesses on a global scale. Our emphasis is on groundbreaking research and practices relevant to business; our primary focus is on developing business leaders who carry their innovative ideas into a sustainable future. Our portfolio includes a broad array of bachelor, master, doctoral, MBA and executive education programmes. www.rsm.nl

For more information on RSM or on this release, please contact Marianne Schouten, Media & Public Relations Manager for RSM, on +31 10 408 2877 or by email at mschouten@remove-this.rsm.nl.