Dutch exporters rush shipments to U.S. amid fears of Trump tariffs

Dutch companies are accelerating exports to the United States in anticipation of steep import tariffs proposed by Donald Trump. Businesses are shipping goods as quickly as possible before the potential 25 percent tax on all European Union products takes effect, sources told BNR.

Since the start of the year, KLM Cargo has reported unusually high volumes of shipments to the U.S. "There is already a significant buildup in American warehouses," said a spokesperson for Evofenedex, a trade association representing Dutch exporters. "Many companies have acted early to move exports forward."

The surge in exports has been visible for months, according to industry insiders. Martin de Groot, chairman of the Netherlands-America Chamber of Commerce in Washington, described the trend as "a hill, not a massive peak." He estimated that shipments to the U.S. have risen about 15 percent above normal levels, aligning with data from the CBS. The agency reported an 18 percent year-over-year increase in Dutch exports to the U.S. in December 2023. The Dutch Customs Office also confirmed a "moderate increase" in outgoing shipments to America in recent months.

Companies are taking advantage of the current tariff-free window. "Every product exported to the U.S. now is exempt from any future duties," the Evofenedex spokesperson said. "Moving exports forward is a logical decision."

While Trump has repeatedly threatened tariffs since taking office, he has also delayed similar import duties for Canada and Mexico multiple times. "Businesses are waiting to see what happens," said Steven Brakman, a professor of international economics. "Stockpiling goods gives them time to assess and potentially weather the trade conflict."

However, long shipping times present challenges. Transporting goods from Rotterdam to New York takes approximately nine days, while shipping to the U.S. West Coast can take three to four weeks, according to logistics experts.

Despite the strategic stockpiling, Dutch businesses remain cautious about discussing their vulnerabilities in an unpredictable trade environment. "Companies do not want to publicly acknowledge their exposure to tariff risks," said Elmar Otten, a policy advisor at Evofenedex.

An analysis by the trade group identified food products, iron, steel, aircraft components, and electrical equipment as the most exposed sectors. These industries produce heavily for the U.S. market and could face significant losses if the tariffs take effect.