Netherlands sets target to scrap or simplify 750 regulations by 2027

The Dutch government has set a target for all ministries to scrap or simplify a total of 750 regulations by the end of 2027. State Secretary Eric van der Burg announced the specific targets for each ministry in a letter to the House of Representatives. The initiative aims to reduce administrative pressure on citizens and businesses, with the goal of splitting the benefits equally between the two groups.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management faces the largest reduction with 100 rules, followed by Social Affairs and Employment (96), Finance (88), and Justice and Security (84). Other ministries, including Interior, Health, Economic Affairs, Education, Defense, Foreign Affairs, and Agriculture, have also been assigned specific quotas.

This new target follows a previous administration's goal of simplifying 500 rules per year, which was not fully met, resulting in 403 rules simplified. Critics and political commentators have noted that while deregulation is a widely supported political desire, the actual implementation remains a challenge for a state transitioning from an investing role to a welfare-focused role.