The insights from this index reveal that Dutch firms more frequently participate in international value chains subject to tariff imposition, compared to their EU counterparts. This is largely explained by the greater occurrence of taxed border crossings within these chains. Notably, although the average tariff at each taxed border crossing remains nearly on par with the EU average, the implications of international trade policy and worldwide tariffs hold pronounced significance for the Netherlands.

Within Dutch value chains, relatively elevated tariff expenses are applied at the EU's external boundary. This underscores the potential for the EU to enhance cost considerations related to tariffs, particularly in the realm of services. While services typically do not bear direct tariffs, they still experience indirect tariff effects due to the intertwining of service and goods value chains.