The Netherlands ranks 6th in global life sciences benchmark

The Netherlands has secured the 6th position worldwide as a location for life sciences companies, according to a new benchmark study by KPMG commissioned by the American Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands (AmCham).

The report highlights the country’s strong position in talent availability, digital infrastructure, and high-quality R&D facilities. At the same time, it warns that the Netherlands risks losing ground due to slower patient access to innovations and limited investment in R&D compared to competing nations.

“The Netherlands has gold in its hands as a host country,” said Marc ter Haar, Executive Director at AmCham Netherlands. “But without long-term government policies, we will not strengthen our position.”

With the life sciences sector contributing €32 billion to GDP in 2024 and employing 53,000 people, the study underlines the strategic importance of the industry for the Dutch economy. KPMG partner David Ikkersheim emphasized the need for more financing opportunities for start-ups and scale-ups, as well as stronger European capital market integration to prevent talent outflow to the US.

The report also stresses the importance of regional innovation hubs, including Leiden Bio Science Park, the Amsterdam Metropolitan Region, and Pivot Park Oss. These ecosystems, built on close collaboration between companies, universities, and government, form the backbone of the Dutch life sciences sector. Strengthening such regional partnerships is seen as a key step in enhancing the Netherlands’ international competitiveness.

At Leiden Bio Science Park, we are proud to be recognised as one of the driving forces behind the Dutch life sciences ecosystem. This acknowledgement reaffirms our role in bringing together science, business, and government to accelerate innovation and strengthen the Netherlands’ position on the global stage.

You can read the full report here