Why did Holland start being called the Netherlands?
As of January 1, 2020, official institutions, companies, publications, and universities in the Netherlands began to refer to their country exclusively as the "Netherlands," abandoning the name "Holland." The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that this was done to create a unified national brand.
What are Holland and the Netherlands? The Netherlands is the official name of the country. Holland is the name of a historical region located in the west of the Netherlands. It consists of two smaller regions: North Holland and South Holland.
The Netherlands is a significant trading partner for Latvia, and the trade turnover has been steadily increasing over the past 10 years, having already doubled. There is no doubt that the country is an excellent potential market for any entrepreneur in almost any trade or industrial sector.
Here is a brief overview of the most notable products from the Netherlands. Global brands do not require separate mention, and here are simply listed the traditional Dutch products:
Cheese: Dutch cheeses such as Gouda and Edam are widely known and valued for their taste and quality.
Flowers and tulip bulbs: The Netherlands is a world leader in the production and export of flowers, especially tulips. The country is also known for its flower auctions.
Beer: Famous beer brands such as Heineken and Amstel are produced in the Netherlands.
Stroopwafels: These traditional Dutch waffles with caramel filling are popular among locals and tourists alike.
Delftware: Delft blue porcelain is a type of pottery with characteristic blue patterns, produced in the city of Delft.
Liqueurs: The Netherlands is also known for its liqueurs, such as Jenever, which is considered a predecessor of gin.
Chocolate: Some chocolate brands, such as Tony's Chocolonely, are known for their high-quality products and socially responsible production. These products reflect unique aspects of Dutch culture and traditions.
Various international fairs and exhibitions are traditionally places to establish business contacts, open or expand your business, and find inspiration for its development. Perhaps you are interested in events taking place in the Netherlands.
Here are some of the largest and most well-known:
Horecava
Horecava is the largest exhibition in the Netherlands dedicated to the hospitality and catering industry. The event takes place annually at RAI Amsterdam and brings together professionals from the restaurant and hotel business, offering the latest products, technologies, and trends in this field.
ISE (Integrated Systems Europe)
ISE is the world's largest exhibition of audiovisual technologies and system integration, held annually in Amsterdam. It attracts participants from around the world, showcasing the latest innovations in audiovisual solutions, home automation, and professional equipment.
PLMA's World of Private Label
This exhibition, organized by the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA), is held annually at RAI Amsterdam and is the leading international exhibition for private label products. The event gathers manufacturers and retailers, showcasing a wide range of private label products.
Modefabriek
Modefabriek is the largest fashion industry exhibition in the Netherlands, held twice a year in Amsterdam. It brings together designers, manufacturers, and buyers, presenting the latest collections of clothing, footwear, and accessories.
TEFAF (The European Fine Art Fair)
TEFAF Maastricht is one of the most prestigious and largest art and antique fairs in the world. It is held annually in Maastricht and attracts collectors, dealers, and art lovers from around the world, showcasing unique artworks, antiques, and jewelry.
GreenTech Amsterdam
An exhibition of horticultural technologies.
Plastics Recycling Show Europe
An exhibition dedicated to plastic recycling.
2025 Events
Fiets en Wandelbeurs (Hike & Bike Xperience)
An exhibition for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.
February 14-16, 2025.
Huishoudbeurs 2025
A consumer goods exhibition.
February 22 - March 1, 2025.
Bakkersvak - The Baking and Ice Cream Fair
An exhibition for bakers and ice cream makers.
March 9-11, 2025.
Aquatech Amsterdam
An exhibition of water supply technologies.
March 11-14, 2025.
in-cosmetics Global 2025
An exhibition of cosmetics and personal care products.
April 8-10, 2025.
PotatoEurope 2025
An exhibition for the potato industry.
September 3-4, 2025.
Boldly seek suppliers and negotiate cooperation, and your carrier will take care of the fast, safe, and reliable delivery of your goods from the Netherlands!