The Netherlands is about to introduce a scheme for scrutinizing foreign direct investments (FDI). It introduces far-reaching governmental interventions in (intended) investments in vital processes or sensitive technology in order to protect national security for the first time. Although it is recognized that an open economy and international trade are driving forces behind the Dutch economy, it is also acknowledged that due to globalization and digitalization geopolitics, economy and (national) safety are closely intertwined.
Matthijs van den Broek and Daphne van Boxtel clarify this new regulation.