The Dutch labor force is approximately 7.5 million. About 39.6% of the total population in Rotterdam is in the workforce (around 298,000). The services industry is the main source of employment in The Netherlands, and the nature of employment in Rotterdam reflects this strongly. In Rotterdam, the main employers are the business services, health and welfare services, trade and transport and communications sector. In terms of employment opportunities, Rotterdam differs from other Dutch cities in one aspect - the Rotterdam seaport is a major employer in Rotterdam. The number of people employed in the transport and communications sector in Rotterdam is much higher than in Amsterdam or any other Dutch city. The Rotterdam seaport is the largest in Europe and was the busiest in the world. Despite being taken over by Singapore and Shanghai in recent years, the port of Rotterdam remains one of the world's busiest seaports.

There are several large Dutch conglomerates with headquarters in Rotterdam, among them, Dutch consumer giant Unilever and Shell. Mittal Steel Company, the world largest steel company is also headquartered in Rotterdam.

In general, if you do not speak Dutch, it may be difficult for you to find suitable employment. Most employees in Rotterdam (and for The Netherlands) are multi-lingual, and most of them are highly educated and qualified. In addition, the Highly Skilled Migrant Scheme brings in many professionals and executives to this country, so if you are an accompanying partner who is posted to Rotterdam to work, it may be challenging for you to find work. If you are in Rotterdam on a family visa, you need to check to see if your residency status permits you to work legally in The Netherlands.

If you are setting up a business in Rotterdam, you may wish to contact the Rotterdam Development Cooperation that can advise you on many matters. Click here for a listing of the account managers (categorized by region in Rotterdam) and their contact numbers. The Gemeente Rotterdam also offers good advice on how to recruit staff, as well as other important information about import and export rules.