Why the Netherlands, seen from Asia
Founders in Singapore compare Europe with what they know: few formalities, English everywhere, and rules that are strict but predictable. In the EU, the Netherlands comes closest to this. It offers three things that Singapore lacks. First, a company inside the EU single market. Second, the port of Rotterdam and an import VAT deferment. You declare the 21% import VAT in your VAT return and deduct it there. Third, a treaty network with good links to both Asia and the Americas.
How the chain usually looks
In the common design, your existing holding remains the top company. Your Singapore or Hong Kong company owns the Dutch BV, and the BV trades in Europe. The BV pays dividends to your holding under the treaty and participation rules. European profit is taxed once, in the Netherlands: 19% on the first €200,000 of profit and 25.8% above that. If you sell goods, you add the import deferment licence and, where useful, an EU warehouse. If you sell software, the BV is your base for the EU VAT return for cross-border sales (OSS).
Substance. Under Dutch law the BV is always resident in the Netherlands for tax. If it is managed from Singapore or Hong Kong, that country may also treat it as resident, and the tax treaty then decides where it is taxed. A postal address in the Netherlands alone is insufficient. From the start, plan where decisions are taken, the banking and a local presence that suits the size of the business.
What we do
We design and set up Dutch structures for international founders. This includes the incorporation and the holding structure above it. It also includes the VAT registrations and licences, and a written plan you can give to your bank or board. All contact is in English. The advice is based on the 2026 figures, with the reasoning written out.
Use the form to tell us what you run in Singapore or Hong Kong and what you plan in Europe. Our team looks at your situation and replies personally, free of obligation.
Founders from Greater China can also read the Dutch page ondernemen vanuit China.
Want our team to have a look?
We help you set up your business in the Netherlands: your company, your tax and your residence permit. Tell us where you stand or what you are planning. You get free advice on your next step.