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Dutch water sector exports in 2022 estimated at nearly EUR 10 billion
The recently published Water Sector Export Index report shows that the Dutch water sector achieved an export value of close to EUR 10 billion in 2022. This is an increase of 23 percent compared to 2021 when the export value of the Dutch water sector was over EUR 8.1 billion.
The export quotient, which shows the importance of exports for the sector, was estimated at over 45 percent for 2022 and more than 50 percent for 2023. It shows that exports for companies in the Dutch water sector are increasing strongly and it is crucial for economic forecasts and employment opportunities in the sector.
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The Water Sector Export Index (WEX) shows the development of the Dutch water sector’s exports. The WEX report identifies the most promising geographic markets for exports and covers areas and subjects that are crucial for the growth of the Dutch water sector. In 2022, the Index achieved a value of 229 (on 100, with 2000 being the baseline year).
The water sector has benefited from the worldwide growth of the world economy and the increased demand for water expertise abroad. The Dutch water sector’s exports has grown by 248 percent over the last 20 years and by 151 percent over the last 10 years. The gross added value of the sector – the income earned through the production of goods and delivery of services – amounted to almost EUR 10.9 billion in 2022 and is estimated at about EUR 12 billion for 2023.
Many companies in the Dutch water sector took part in a questionnaire about their market expectations for the coming years. Companies are optimistic about the market and see an important role for the sector in dealing with challenges related to climate change. Two out of three companies expect an increase in international turnover in 2024 and an average growth of almost 25 percent. The demand for Dutch water expertise lies in climate related issues and the energy crisis.
Areas of focus for exports
Most of the international turnover is generated in the EU (33 percent) and North America (34 percent). Significant amounts in the delta technology sector are generated in the EU (32 percent). Of note is the water technology sector’s interest in the MENA region (Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates). In the delta technology sector, Bangladesh and Indonesia stand out as recipients in the sector.
Various crises in the world have led 21 percent of the companies to shift their regional focus to other areas such as the USA, West Europe, and Central and East Asia.
Important international water themes
The drinking water supply, water and green, and industrial wastewater sub-sectors show great potential. The most important international water themes for the next few years named are mostly related to climate and sustainability: climate change, nature-based solutions, the energy transition, and water reuse. There are also themes on the agriculture and water nexus such as soil and agriculture, drought, water quality, and water scarcity which are becoming more prominent.
International collaboration is the key to success
The companies in the WEX stress the importance of collaboration with international companies and organisations in the sector to take advantage of international opportunities. Market knowledge, understanding the users’ needs, and financial resources are also seen as important factors in international success.
More about the Water Sector Export Index
To show the development of the Dutch water sector’s exports, an index was designed for the export of water activities. This is the Water Sector Export Index (WEX). The WEX is based on the water technology and delta technology sub-sectors. The baseline year for the WEX is 2000 when the WEX equated to 100.
In 2022 the WEX was 229 (2000=100), which means that exports amounted to almost EUR 10 billion. However, the WEX is not only based on statistics. Many companies from the Dutch water sector filled in a survey, making it possible to produce a preliminary forecast for WEX 2022, expected figures for 2023, and a forecast for 2024.
The WEX report was carried out by Panteia and commissioned by the Netherlands Water Partnership Water Alliance and Top Sector Water and Maritime. Funding was provided by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.