Recent developments in the field of innovation and industrial policy

Last week there was a parliamentary debate on the budget of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate, in which the Dutch climate policy, the Growth Fund and innovation within the Dutch industrial policy were discussed. A few motions from members of parliament stood out.

The upcoming European Recovery and Resilience Facility (RFF) of the European Union provides the recovery plan for Europe in response to the consequences of the coronavirus. This stimulus package was adopted this spring by the European Commission, the European Parliament and European leaders.

Member of Parliament Eppo Bruins (Christian Union) and Mustafa Amhaouch (CDA) have drawn up a motion in which they advocate the preservation of a European level playing field. This is of great importance to the member states and that is why they are requesting the Dutch government – just like the other European countries – to participate in the first application round of the RRF. The same Amhaouch also speaks out in another motion for the importance of regional development as part of the Dutch growth strategy.

Among others, Member of Parliament Dennis Wiersma (VVD) advocates a concrete elaboration of the Dutch growth strategy. Together with other Members of Parliament, he requests that the Dutch government come up with a list of official options for a promising growth policy. This also applies to the Dutch strategy regarding stimulating the establishment of start-ups and scale-ups.

Should the Dutch government follow up these motions with legislation and concrete actions, we will inform you as soon as possible.