Prinsjesdag 2025: What Businesses Need to Know – Under a Caretaker Government

Prinsjesdag 2025 arrives under a unique and potentially disruptive circumstance: a “demissionair” (caretaker) government. This situation has significant implications for businesses, impacting potential policy changes and timelines. Recent leaks have begun to paint a picture of what to expect, although the official details remain to be confirmed on September 16th. This article focuses on what businesses need to understand about a caretaker government and the emerging picture from leaked information.

The ‘Demissionair’ Factor: What it Means for Prinsjesdag

In a unique situation, the Dutch government will be “demissionair” (caretaker) for Prinsjesdag 2025. This means the current government has resigned but remains in power until a new government is formed after the upcoming elections. A demissionair government’s role is primarily to manage existing policies and avoid making significant new political decisions.

Recent leaks have begun to shed light on potential policy directions, although it’s crucial to remember that the official numbers and plans are subject to change before Prinsjesdag.

This status has important implications:

  • Limited New Policy: Expect a “beleidsarm” (policy-light) Miljoenennota. The government is unlikely to introduce major new policy initiatives due to the transitional nature of its role.
  • Focus on Existing Commitments: The Miljoenennota will primarily focus on existing commitments and necessary adjustments.
  • Potential for Delay: Important dossiers for businesses, such as the ongoing stikstof crisis (nitrogen crisis) could face delays, as significant decisions are deferred until a new government is in place.
  • Exceptions Possible: While cautious, the demissionair government can still introduce new policies if deemed essential for the country’s interests, provided they have broad support from the House of Representatives.

What’s Been Leaked So Far:

  • Increased Purchasing Power: Leaked documents suggest the average Dutch household’s purchasing power is expected to rise by approximately 1.3% next year, a significant increase from the 1% previously estimated. This represents a notable improvement for working individuals (1.2% increase), recipients of benefits (1.3% increase), and especially pensioners (1.5% increase).
  • Addressing Budgetary Challenges: The leaked information reveals a €35 billion budget shortfall. To address this, the government intends to borrow money, leading to an increase in the national debt.
  • Continued Support for Tech: The government is reportedly earmarking around €430 million extra for the tech industry.
  • No Cheap ‘Red Diesel’ for Farmers: Plans to make “red diesel” (a subsidized diesel used in agriculture) cheaper have been scrapped.
  • Extension of Fuel Tax Relief: The current reduction in fuel excise duties for gasoline, diesel, and LPG will be extended annually.
  • Public Transport Investment: Planned cuts to public transport in major cities will reportedly not go ahead.
  • Reversal of Education Cuts: The cuts to the “onderwijskansenregeling” (a program to support schools working with children from disadvantaged backgrounds) will be reversed.
  • Increased Prison Capacity: Investment in the prison system will see an additional €35 million annually from 2028, rising to €50 million from 2031.
  • Limited Healthcare Premium Increases: Healthcare premiums are expected to rise by around €3 per month.
  • Fiscal Deficit: The government expects a fiscal deficit of 2.9% next year, below the 3% EU threshold, and anticipates further reduction in subsequent years.

The Tightrope of a Demissionair Government

The demissionair government, comprised of the VVD and BBB, holds only 32 of the 150 seats in parliament. This precarious position necessitates support from various opposition parties for any proposal. With parliamentary elections looming, these parties are likely to seek concessions in return for their backing. This makes significant policy shifts less probable but also creates an unpredictable environment.

A Cautious Outlook from Minister Heinen

In a leaked foreword to the Prinsjesdag documents, Minister of Finance Heinen describes the Netherlands as being “in a good position” but warns that the nation risks losing its competitive edge. He emphasizes the need for increased investment in security and strengthening the “Dutch earning power.”

Staying Informed: Resources for Businesses

Business.gov.nl and Ondernemersplein will be crucial resources for businesses seeking clarity on Prinsjesdag announcements. EMG, the specialist in global mobility, will also be closely monitoring proposed changes and sending updates via email newsletter. Sign up here to stay up to date

Key Resources:

Conclusion

Prinsjesdag 2025 arrives under unique and uncertain circumstances. The demissionair government’s status, combined with the recent leaks, creates a complex landscape for businesses. While the leaked information offers a glimpse into potential changes, it’s crucial to remember that the final details remain to be confirmed. Businesses should closely follow updates from reliable sources like Business.gov.nl, Ondernemersplein, and EMG to stay informed and prepare for the evolving situation.

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