The Dutch economy has a strong international focus, as the Netherlands is one of the European Union's most dynamic centres of trade and industry. Owing largely to its favourable location by the North Sea, it plays a key role as a main port and distribution centre for companies operating worldwide. The port of Rotterdam handles some 377 million tonnes of goods every year, and is one of the largest ports in the world; while Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport is one of the largest airports in Europe. For these reasons the Netherlands is often called the 'Gateway to Europe'.

 

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From: EVD