Dutch economy shrinks considerably

The Dutch economy contracted by 1.5 percent in the third quarter of 2012 compared to the same period one year previously. Fixed capital formation fell by 5.7 percent relative to the third quarter of 2011. Private sector investments were down by 8.1 percent. Government investments, on the other hand, were 3.4 percent higher than one year previously. Household spending on goods and services fell by 1.4 percent. Household consumption was in decline for the sixth consecutive quarter. With an increase of 0.7 percent, government consumption was marginally higher than in the same period one year previously. Exports of goods and services also increased. The volume of exports was 2.1 percent up and the volume of imports was 2.6 percent up from the third quarter of 2011.

Production declined in nearly all branches. With 7 percent, the most substantial decline was observed in the sectors construction and mineral extraction.

  Disposable for final expenditure and final expenditure (volume)