TNO Warns: Accelerated Automation Is Crucial for the Future of the Dutch Manufacturing Industry

The Netherlands currently lags behind international leaders in terms of robot density. While the Netherlands has approximately 264 robots per 10,000 workers, this figure is significantly higher in countries such as South Korea, China, and Germany, ranging from 400 to more than 1,000. To restore competitiveness, a productivity increase of at least 50% is necessary.

The Long Term

Without targeted action, the consequences threaten to become apparent quickly. In the short term, labor shortages lead to inefficiencies and higher costs. In the medium term, the technological gap widens, while in the long term, structural damage occurs in the form of a loss of industry, jobs, and strategic autonomy.

Robotization, on the other hand, offers concrete opportunities. Through increased operational flexibility, improved product quality, and lower error rates, robots directly contribute to more efficient production. Furthermore, the integration of AI makes systems more flexible and easier to deploy, which is particularly relevant for the Netherlands’ high-mix, low-volume production.

The Recommendation

To accelerate this transition, TNO advocates for a national robotization agenda. Key points include strengthening knowledge sharing and awareness, promoting standardization and ecosystems, investing in education and skills, enhancing international positioning, and providing targeted support to SMEs through initiatives such as field labs and innovative financing models.

The message is clear: robotization is not a choice, but a necessary condition for keeping the Dutch manufacturing industry future-proof.

Read the TNO article here.