Posted on June 4, 2025
Deltalinqs, the organisation representing all companies operating in the Port of Rotterdam, has called for a swift formation of a new cabinet following the collapse of the Dutch government, warning of risks to the port’s strategic role and the country’s broader economic stability.
The coalition government ended abruptly after far-right leader Geert Wilders pulled his party out over immigration and asylum disagreements, dissolving the 11-month-old four-party alliance.
In a statement, Deltalinqs warned that the political uncertainty must not delay urgent measures needed to protect the port — Europe’s largest — and its vital role in Dutch and regional economic activity.
Victor van der Chijs, chairman of Deltalinqs, pointed to a series of ongoing challenges putting the port’s competitiveness under pressure. “Sky-high energy costs for industry, grid congestion, nitrogen emissions restrictions, and chronic underinvestment in infrastructure and sustainable innovation are eroding the port’s ability to function as an economic engine,” he said.
Van der Chijs emphasised that these issues threaten not only port operations but also the wider Dutch economy and its strategic autonomy. “This is gradually undermining our broad-based prosperity without many even realising it. It’s no coincidence that the IMF recently raised the alarm on this issue.”
He called for the incoming government to act swiftly to halt deindustrialisation and implement policies that ensure fair electricity pricing, resolve nitrogen challenges, and accelerate investments in infrastructure and sustainable technology at the port.
“The world is not waiting for the Netherlands – a new and decisive cabinet must be formed without delay,” Van der Chijs said.
