Dutch trade

Dutch trade refers to the historical and ongoing commercial activities conducted by the Netherlands, especially during the 17th century, known as the Dutch Golden Age. The Dutch were highly skilled sailors and merchants, establishing a vast trading network that included Asia, Africa, and the Americas. They pioneered innovations like joint-stock companies (e.g., the Dutch East India Company), which allowed for large-scale investments in global trade. This enabled them to import valuable goods such as spices, textiles, and tea, and export Dutch products. Their trading success boosted economic growth, helped develop global markets, and established the Netherlands as a major commercial hub.