Netherlands
Land area: Total: 41,526 sq km
Population: 16.6 million (2008 est.)
Labour force: 7.7 million (2008 est.)
Occupations: Agriculture: 3%, industry: 21%, services: 76% (2005)
Languages: Dutch (official), Frisian (official)
Capital: Amsterdam
Head of State: Queen BEATRIX (since 30 April 1980)
Head of government: Prime Minister Jan Peter BALKENENDE
National holiday: Queen's Day (Birthday of Queen-Mother JULIANA and accession to the throne of her oldest daughter BEATRIX), 30 April.
Economy: The Netherlands has a prosperous and open economy, which depends heavily on foreign trade. The economy is noted for stable industrial relations, moderate unemployment and inflation, and an important role as a European transportation hub. Industrial activity is predominantly in food processing, chemicals, petroleum refining, and electrical machinery. A highly mechanised agricultural sector. The country has been one of the leading European nations for attracting foreign direct investment and is one of the four largest investors in the US.
Imports: £19,063 million (2008) from the UK
Industries: Agriculture, metal and engineering products, electrical machinery and equipment, chemicals, petroleum, construction, fishing, microelectronics.
Inflation: 2.6% (2008 est.)
Did you know...The Netherlands has an interesting geography and relationship with the sea. Its lowest point is at 7 m below sea level, and its highest point at 322 m above sea level.
