Chinese companies strengthen their presence in the Dutch logistics market

Europe as a new growth market amid shifting trade routes

Global trade routes are undergoing significant change. Despite recent tariff adjustments following high-level meetings between China and the United States, the complexity of trade relations continues to push Chinese e-commerce and logistics firms to diversify their strategies. Europe has emerged as an increasingly attractive market, offering scale, stability and direct access to consumers. Within this shift, the Netherlands stands out as a natural gateway, thanks to the Port of Rotterdam and its long-standing reputation for high-quality logistics infrastructure serving wider Europe. 

A new wave of Chinese logistics operators

The first wave of Chinese occupiers entering the Dutch market was largely linked to the renewable energy sector, driven by Europe’s sustainability agenda. Companies such as AYCO and HIH Logistics, both active in solar energy, secured major facilities of 44,000 sq m in Oud Gastel and 18,000 sq m in Bergen op Zoom respectively. Today, however, the trend is increasingly shaped by e-commerce and consumer goods distribution. This is not merely a reaction to geopolitical tensions; it is a deliberate strategy to position themselves closer to European consumers.

Chinese operators are combining large-scale distribution centres with the rollout of proprietary last-mile networks. A prime example is GOFO Netherlands, formerly Cirro Parcel, which recently leased approximately 13,000 sq m at CTPark Amsterdam. This location strengthens its last-mile infrastructure in the Dutch capital and the Randstad, the country’s largest consumer market. GOFO primarily handles last-mile delivery for e-commerce giants such as TEMU and SHEIN, both of which have become household names in Europe.

Other notable e-commerce-driven expansions include Cainiao and JD.com, which have taken up 17,000 sq m and 25,000 sq m respectively in the Greater Rotterdam region. In Vlissingen, JD – alongside Feniks and HIH Logistics – has committed to large-scale space dedicated to the storage of lithium batteries for consumer goods, a development enabled by a unique permit granted to DHG. This surge in battery storage demand is closely linked to the electrification of Europe’s economy, particularly in consumer electronics and mobility solutions. However, obtaining permits for such facilities remains challenging across Europe due to stringent fire safety and regulatory requirements, making these transactions highly strategic. These examples underline how Chinese occupiers are targeting key distribution corridors near ports, multimodal hubs and major population centres to secure long-term operational resilience.

Market dynamics and economic impact

The arrival of Chinese firms is adding depth and resilience to the Dutch logistics market, particularly as speculative development slows after several record years. Their demand supports continued absorption of modern warehouse stock and reinforces the Netherlands’ strategic role within Europe’s supply chain. Beyond distribution capacity, these companies bring investment in technology and infrastructure, further enhancing the sector’s competitiveness.

While geopolitics provide the backdrop, this shift is ultimately driven by market logic. Businesses are following demand by relocating production, storage and distribution closer to consumers. This approach reduces risk, shortens delivery times and ensures operational continuity – all critical factors in today’s just-in-time economy. At the same time, Europe represents a key growth market for Chinese companies, offering access to affluent consumers and a stable regulatory environment. For China, strengthening its presence in Europe is not only about serving local demand but also about securing long-term trade flows and diversifying global supply chains. This two-way dynamic means Chinese logistics players are becoming a defining force in Europe’s logistics landscape, while Europe itself is cementing its role as a vital market for Chinese industry.