The Dutch economy grew by 0.4% in the second quarter of 2026, Statistics Netherlands reported in its first estimate. That followed 0.3% growth in Q1 and left GDP 1.3% above its level a year earlier.
Household consumption and public consumption were the strongest positive contributors. Fixed investment also rose, while imports grew slightly faster than exports and made the trade balance a small drag on quarterly growth.
Consumers and investment moved together
Household consumption increased 0.5% from the first quarter, helped by spending on passenger cars and food, beverages and tobacco. Fixed capital formation also rose 0.5%, led by investment in electrotechnical devices.
That combination gives the quarter a broader base than growth driven only by government or exports. It suggests domestic demand is supporting activity even as international trade remains uneven.
Manufacturing rebounded
Manufacturing value added rose 1.5% in the quarter, with machinery and petroleum industries among the contributors. Trade, accommodation, food services, transportation and storage rose 1.8% and made the largest sector contribution to growth.
Construction remained weak, falling 0.8%, while financial institutions and energy also contracted. The sector picture is therefore positive but not uniform.
Trade remains central to the Dutch outlook
Exports rose 1.2% from Q1, but imports increased 1.4%. For an economy as open as the Netherlands, small differences in those flows can have a visible effect on GDP.
The year-on-year picture was stronger: exports rose 2.5% and imports 2.1%, allowing trade to contribute positively compared with Q2 2025.
| Measure | Q2 change |
|---|---|
| GDP | +0.4% q/q |
| Household consumption | +0.5% |
| Fixed investment | +0.5% |
| Exports | +1.2% |
| Imports | +1.4% |
| Manufacturing value added | +1.5% |