WBJ: Even before the pandemic struck, the internet was the lifeline of most economies. Now, even more so. How much money has been invested in the internet in your country? How many people have access to high-speed internet (above 25 Mbps download) in your country? And how tech-friendly is your country?

Daphne Bergsma, Dutch Ambassador: The Netherlands has one of the most advanced digital economies in the world, ranked 6th in the Global Innovation Index of 2021 and 7th in the Digital Competitiveness Ranking in 2020. After all, it’s the country where WiFi and Bluetooth were invented and it has a top-notch digital infrastructure with a highly educated and qualified workforce. Dutch consumers also lead in internet usage, as 90% of Dutch people between 16-75 years old use it daily. Moreover, 96% of Dutch households have access to broadband internet and almost 40% of users have access to high-speed internet. By 2025, the Netherlands plans to invest at least €1.5 billion annually in the digital economy.

WBJ: How does the growth forecast for Q4 2021 look for your country? What are the industries that have been performing well, that have been underperforming, and the industries that seem to hold a lot of promise in your country?

The Dutch economy is recovering from the contraction triggered by Covid-19 measures and the subsequent decrease in private consumption last year and in Q1 this year. As the health situation stabilizes and the vaccination rates increase, the economy is expected to continue rebounding with the Dutch GDP expanding by 10% in Q3 and 4.6% in Q4 on an annual basis. Overall, GDP is forecast to grow by 3.9% in both 2021 and 2022. The industries that definitely hold a lot of promise are those contributing to “greening” the economy, such as renewable energy and the circular economy sectors.

WBJ: Poland recorded the highest inflation in 20 years in August, according to the early estimates by its central stats office. How high/low is the inflation in your country? What are the causes? 

The current inflation rate jumped to 2.4% in August. It’s the highest score since December 2019. This increase can be partly explained by a rapid rebound of prices due to increased consumer spending and supply constraints, both domestically and internationally. Moreover, as Covid-19 measures are gradually lifted, consumers’ demand for certain goods and services has grown, especially in housing, transport, and recreational and cultural activities. Overall, consumer price inflation is now forecast to average 2.2% in 2021.