Labor Costs & Productivity in Netherlands
What does manufacturing labor really cost in Netherlands? The answer comes down to two things this dataset reports monthly: the fully loaded cost of a worker — total wages and all non-wage costs combined into a single figure — and the Labor Productivity Factor, which captures how productively that laborer works. Industry Economics & Competitiveness gives you both for the Netherlands' manufacturing and construction sectors.
Dutch labor costs across chemical and manufacturing sectors demonstrated varied trajectories between 2020 and 2021. Chemical plant operators increased from $42.13 to $42.53 per hour, while supervisory roles rose more substantially from $56.67 to $61.56 per hour, representing a 8.6 percent gain. Manufacturing labor recovered to $49.98 in 2021 after declining to $45.19 the prior year, whereas construction labor continued its upward momentum, climbing from $48.63 to $51.25 per hour. Across the 2016–2021 period, construction labor posted the steepest cumulative growth at 21.2 percent, while chemical plant operators increased 13.0 percent over the same interval.
The figures shown are illustrative and represent a historical sample. For up-to-date monthly labor cost and productivity benchmarks in Netherlands — along with industrial costs and manufacturing competitiveness data across 33 countries — subscribe to Intratec Industry Economics & Competitiveness.
About the Labor Benchmarks. Each monthly release reports three categories of labor data for Netherlands: total employer cost (wages plus non-wage costs) for manufacturing and construction sectors, output per worker for the same sectors, and role-specific wages for chemical plant operators and supervisors at typical plant staffing levels. The same methodology produces comparable benchmarks for every country in the program, with a 10-year monthly history alongside the current values.
Beyond Labor Costs
Labor cost and productivity factors are part of the Industry Economics & Competitiveness subscription — a monthly program benchmarking commodities manufacturing competitiveness across 33 countries, including Netherlands.
33 Key Countries
Country-by-country monthly reports covering major industrial hubs — USA, China, Germany, Japan, Brazil, India, and more.
7 Industries Covered
Industry-specific rankings across olefins, aromatics, alcohols & organic acids, polymers, fertilizers, inorganic chemicals, and metals.
Reference Datasets
Country-level cost inputs for plant projects — labor costs, utility prices, construction indexes, and location factors.
Monthly Updates
Fresh data every month, always reflecting the most recent period available, with short-term forecasts on selected series.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Netherlands's Manufacturing Industry
The Netherlands boasts a highly developed and diverse economy, characterized by a strong industrial sector that plays a vital role in both national and global markets. Known for its innovative approach and robust infrastructure, the country excels in various industries, including technology, agriculture, chemicals, and machinery. Manufacturing significantly contributes to the Netherlands' GDP, driving employment and economic growth.
The Dutch manufacturing industry is recognized for its emphasis on quality, sustainability, and advanced technology. With a skilled workforce and a focus on research and development, the Netherlands has established itself as a leader in producing high-value goods. The technology sector, in particular, is noted for its innovative solutions and contributions to global markets.
As the Netherlands adapts to global economic trends, such as digital transformation and environmental sustainability, its manufacturing sector remains essential to economic resilience. The country is increasingly investing in green technologies and smart manufacturing practices, ensuring its competitiveness in the global market. With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, the Netherlands is well-positioned to maintain its status as a key player in the global manufacturing landscape for years to come.