PHILADELPHIA, PA — Pennsylvania officials used a visit from Dutch royalty to press for increased foreign investment, highlighting a $3.7 billion trade relationship and new agreements aimed at expanding economic ties.
What This Means for You
- Pennsylvania is seeking increased foreign investment and job growth
- Trade with the Netherlands reached $3.7 billion in 2025
- New agreements target industries like life sciences and agriculture
Gov. Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro welcomed King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands to Philadelphia on Monday, where leaders toured historic sites and met with business executives to promote investment in the Commonwealth.
The visit included stops at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, along with a roundtable at the Cira Centre with CEOs of Dutch multinational companies focused on expanding business opportunities in Pennsylvania.
Economic Ties and Investment Focus
State officials said the Netherlands is Pennsylvania’s 16th largest trading partner and sixth-largest international job creator, with total trade reaching $3.7 billion in 2025.
The partnership is particularly strong in life sciences, with more than $1.6 billion in pharmaceutical-related trade, according to state data.
During the visit, Pennsylvania and Dutch officials signed a Letter of Understanding outlining plans to expand collaboration in advanced manufacturing, robotics, agriculture, and academic partnerships.
Business and Development Initiatives
Officials also highlighted a planned agreement between Dutch greenhouse company VB Greenhouses and Little Leaf Farms to develop a large-scale indoor agriculture facility in Banks Township.
The project is expected to expand Pennsylvania’s role in controlled-environment agriculture and increase food production capacity.
Broader Economic Strategy
The visit comes as Pennsylvania prepares for major global events tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, which officials say could drive tourism and economic activity.
State officials said recent investments and policy initiatives are aimed at strengthening key industries, including life sciences, manufacturing, energy, and agriculture.
Over the past three years, Pennsylvania has attracted more than $41 billion in private investment and created nearly 23,000 jobs, according to state data.
Looking Ahead
Officials said the visit reflects ongoing efforts to deepen international partnerships and position Pennsylvania for long-term economic growth.
“We’re honored to welcome Their Majesties to the Commonwealth as we celebrate the historic friendship between Pennsylvania and the Netherlands,” Shapiro said.
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