INCOMING AND OUTGOING
TRADE MISSIONS
The trade missions of the MKB Trade Office
Doing business in another country is very much a human endeavour. Think about having a good understanding of the other culture, or being able to make the right contacts. You may also need a commercial agent, distributor or local staff in another country. In any case, being able to look someone straight in the eye has been considered essential for successful trading for centuries.
The same applies to a trade mission: it’s all about laying the groundwork for a lasting relationship. MKB Trade Office helps with this by organising trade missions and country-specific networking events for entrepeneurs in the Netherlands. Think of countries such as Poland, Scandinavia, Spain, Portugal and the popular neighbouring countries England, Belgium and Germany, but recently also Colombia in South America. We emphasise that trade missions are for everyone. Small businesses can also benefit from a mission.
EXAMPLES OF OUTGOING TRADE MISSIONS
Trade Mission Fe:Male Invest Summit
A Growing Connection: Four Trade Missions, One Lasting Partnership
What began as a single trade mission has grown into a trusted tradition. For the fourth time, we are bringing Dutch entrepreneurs from the East Netherlands to Malmö, a city known for its innovation-driven economy, forward-thinking business culture, and strong commitment to diversity.
Each edition of this trade mission has not only opened doors to Malmö’s investment climate, but also deepened the ties between Oost Nederland and Skåne. Through personal encounters, shared ambitions and real dialogue, this recurring mission has fostered more than business, it has sparked a cross-regional friendship rooted in mutual respect and future-oriented collaboration.
This trade mission is more than just a trip: it is an invitation to be part of a growing ecosystem of trust, inclusion and long-term opportunity.
Interested in meeting us there? Contact us.
Trade Mission to Global Industrie Paris 2026
After a highly successful visit to Global Industrie Lyon in 2025, we are preparing for a new trade mission to Global Industrie Paris, taking place from 30 March to 2 April 2026.
Global Industrie is one of Europe’s leading industry fairs, bringing together international companies, cutting-edge technologies and future-focused innovations. For participating SMEs, it offers a unique opportunity to connect with partners, explore new markets and showcase Dutch solutions on an international stage.
Interested in meeting us there? Get in touch and contact the Dutch delegation to Paris in 2026.
Why Trade Missions with Dutch SMEs Work
Looking to build strong, lasting business relationships with innovative Dutch companies? Participating in a trade mission involving Dutch SMEs (MKB in Dutch) is one of the most effective ways to explore new markets, deepen your network, and create tangible cross-border opportunities.
At MKB Trade Office, we organise and coordinate trade missions that offer real-world access to the Dutch business ecosystem, while facilitating structured, meaningful interaction with entrepreneurs, institutions and governments.
What Are the Advantages of Trade Missions (for You)?
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, government representative or cluster organisation, here’s what you can expect when joining a trade mission to meet Dutch SMEs:
1. Fast-track access to the right people
In just a few days, you’ll build a targeted network and meet relevant Dutch partners, from entrepreneurs to business clusters and public-sector leaders.
2. Insight into culture and business potential
Trade missions go beyond business cards. You’ll gain personal, local insight into the Dutch business culture and sector-specific opportunities.
3. Knowledge-sharing & cost-efficiency
Missions offer opportunities to collaborate, co-invest and co-learn. Dutch SMEs are used to working in international ecosystems and openly share insights and lessons learned.
4. Assess your market potential
Exploring cooperation with Dutch companies helps you assess whether a broader partnership, joint venture, or market entry in the Netherlands fits your strategy.
5. High-level support and visibility
You’ll travel and meet with the backing of trade experts and often with Dutch diplomats or government officials. This can open doors that would otherwise remain closed.
What Does a Trade Mission Look Like?
While every trade mission is customised, most include the following key elements:
✔️ Joint travel & delegation networking
Even the journey is a networking opportunity. Group travel helps build trust between mission partners and accelerates collaboration.
✔️ Targeted 1:1 matchmaking
We arrange curated, face-to-face meetings with potential partners, buyers, government officials or industry leaders, tailored to your goals.
✔️ Informal meetups with business value
Missions often include receptions, site visits or networking dinners with selected Dutch stakeholders. These are perfect for building rapport.
Why Collaborate with Dutch SMEs?
Dutch SMEs are highly international, tech-savvy and sustainability-focused. They value long-term partnerships and are eager to collaborate on topics like:
-
Green and circular economy
-
Inclusive entrepreneurship
-
Digitalisation & smart industry
-
Life sciences & agrifood innovation
- Other sectors
By connecting through a trade mission, you don’t just explore a market, you become part of a growing, international business community.
Let’s Build Something That Lasts
Trade missions are more than events. They are launchpads for long-term partnerships. When you join a mission involving Dutch entrepreneurs, you’re stepping into a network of people who believe in shared growth, trust, and opportunity.
Whether you’re looking for co-creation, export partnerships or local market insight: we’d love to welcome you to the Netherlands or explore your region together.
Let’s start the conversation.
MKB Trade Office
Email: info@mkbtradeoffice.nl
KvK: 81843011
Bezoekadres
Gasfabriek Gebouw X
Zutphenseweg 6E
7418 AJ Deventer