Companies such as Discovery Channel, Sony and Bloomberg and Panasonic have already chosen to invest in the Netherlands because of Brexit. 

Sony announced last month it was moving its European headquarters to Amsterdam, as companies in the UK continue to progress with contingency plans. Its rival Panasonic has already moved to the Dutch capital.

The Dutch government also reported that the Japanese investment bank Norinchukin, global content company TVT Media and maritime insurer UK P&I Club will also be moving to Amsterdam as are many others.

Other countries such as Ireland, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg have also been trying to capitalise on Brexit.

The Dutch government is discussing with over 250 companies on the possibility of transferring their operation from the UK to The Netherlands before the Brexit.

Back in January 2019, Belgium’s Prime Minister Charles Michel also said that he had discussed the issue of the BBC having an new EU base in Brussels with its Director general Tony Hall in Davos.

The Dutch economic affairs ministry said: “In 2019, several companies including Discovery and Bloomberg have already announced their intention to invest in the Netherlands because of Brexit.

“Additionally, the Netherlands foreign investment agency is talking with more than 250 foreign companies considering setting up operations in the Netherlands following Brexit.”

Most of the 250 companies were British, but some were American or Asian firms reconsidering their European branch structures, the report said.

“These include companies in the financial sector, media and advertising, life sciences and health and logistics.”

The Guardian
BDST: 1256 HRS, FEB 10, 2019
RS