Provinces of Utrecht and Flevoland realise highest economic growth rate in 2007

• Highest growth rate for Utrecht and Flevoland
• Lowest growth rate recorded in province of Zeeland
• Growth rate above nationwide average in four major cities

Economic growth in Utrecht and Flevoland exceeded 4 percent in 2007, as against 3.5 percent nationwide. Flevoland maintained its leadership position, but has to share it with Utrecht. According to figures released by Statistics Netherlands, the sector business services largely accounted for the economic growth in both provinces.

In Zeeland, economic growth was 2.4 percent in 2007, the lowest rate nationwide. This is mainly due to the fact that there was no industrial expansion in this province. The economic growth rate also remained below 3 percent in the provinces of Limburg and Groningen.

Economic growth in the four major Dutch cities exceeded the nationwide average. With 4.6 percent, Utrecht topped the list, followed by Rotterdam (4.2 percent). Rotterdam benefited from soaring petroleum prices. Amsterdam occupied third place and realised a growth rate of 3.9 percent. With a 3.7 percent economic growth, The Hague lagged somewhat behind due to a marginal growth in the public sector.