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Add as a favourite source on Google Add DutchNews as a favourite source on GoogleConfidence among companies in the Netherlands has recovered sharply after a slump earlier this year, national statistics office CBS said on Thursday, though most firms also say they are operating in a more uncertain economy than a year ago.

It was the biggest quarterly improvement since 2021, but businesses remain more pessimistic than optimistic overall, and confidence is still below its long-term average.

Almost four in five companies said economic uncertainty had increased over the past 12 months. Wars and trade tensions were the main cause, cited by 42%, ahead of changes in demand and difficulty finding staff, suppliers, or materials.

Confidence improved in almost every sector. Construction and farming saw the biggest turnaround, though both still remain among the most pessimistic, along with bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Only the tech and media sector and the culture, sport, and leisure sector were positive outright. Car dealers and garages were the only sector to become more downbeat.

Nearly three-quarters of firms facing more uncertainty have changed how they operate, most often by making staff and working methods more flexible. Around one in five delayed or cut back investment.

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