Small Dutch firms lag on AI use, central bank finds

AI can make the Dutch economy more productive and prosperous, according to new research from De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), the Dutch central bank. The Netherlands starts from a favourable position, DNB says, but companies must build AI into how they work, successful uses must spread, and more productive firms must be able to grow.

DNB points to good digital infrastructure, a highly educated workforce and a lot of knowledge-intensive service work, where AI can help. Dutch companies are among the European leaders in AI use. Use is growing unevenly, though: large companies and digital-heavy sectors lead, while smaller firms and companies in construction, transport and hospitality use AI less often.

Jobs and access

The effect on the number of jobs is uncertain, DNB says, and AI use does not have to mean fewer jobs. It concludes that employers should involve staff early in AI choices, and that guidance towards other work should begin before people lose their jobs. Employers' and employees' organisations can set out agreements on retraining, upskilling and changes in roles in collective labour agreements (cao), in line with advice from the Social and Economic Council (SER).

The Netherlands does not need to develop the most advanced AI models itself, DNB says. Companies must, however, keep reliable and affordable access to AI models, data and computing power, and be able to switch providers easily. Full European self-sufficiency is not needed.

Inflation and policy

AI can push inflation up and hold it down, DNB says. Heavy investment in chips, computers, data centres and the power grid can raise costs if demand for materials, energy and staff outgrows supply. In the longer term, cheaper production can lower price pressure.

On policy, DNB says labour and capital should not be left stuck in less productive activities. It adds that extra national AI requirements should be weighed carefully against the interest of a well-functioning European market.