Business Dialogue Central and Eastern Europe
Friday, 28 November 2025 marks the return of the Business Dialogue Central and Eastern Europe, this time with the theme: 'Economic Opportunities in a Changing Europe'. The event will take place at a stunning location: the ss Rotterdam. Sign up for the alert and be the first to know when registration opens.
Business opportunities are shifting, as the world—and Europe’s place within it—is changing. In strategic sectors such as raw materials, manufacturing, ports and logistics, Europe is seeking opportunities closer to home, including in Central and Eastern Europe. This makes Europe less dependent.
There are also opportunities in neighbouring regions such as the Caucasus and Central Asia—in countries like Georgia, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. With the right knowledge and contacts, Dutch entrepreneurs can seize promising opportunities there. On 28 November, during interactive sessions with regional experts, you’ll learn more about the potential in these regions.
What makes Central and Eastern Europe interesting?
Doing business with countries in Central and Eastern Europe is becoming increasingly popular. While trade is becoming more challenging in other regions, it is becoming more attractive with this one.
Countries in Central and Eastern Europe offer excellent production locations. Many European companies are also engaging in nearshoring—bringing their production closer to home due to international disruptions in supply chains. Additionally, several countries in the region present opportunities in port development.
On 28 November, we will also focus on the Middle Corridor. This supply route runs from Central Asia, via the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan and Georgia, towards Europe. Kazakhstan is also located along this corridor and is a particularly interesting trading partner, especially in the field of raw materials. In fact, the Netherlands was the largest foreign investor in Kazakhstan in 2023, with $1.5 billion in investments.
During this Business Dialogue, various opportunities in Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia will be discussed. We will explore examples with experts and experienced entrepreneurs from Poland, Czech Republic, Romania, Bulgaria, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.
Who is it for?
Are you interested in exploring new, promising markets in Central and Eastern Europe and along the Middle Corridor? Then this Business Dialogue is for you. Special attention is given to entrepreneurs who are already active internationally but are not yet familiar with this region. If you are already doing business in Central and Eastern Europe and wish to expand your market, you are also very welcome.
We especially invite female entrepreneurs to participate. The government is committed to promoting diversity and therefore specifically encourages female entrepreneurs to take the step towards internationalisation.
Why participate?
In 2025 and 2026, several market studies and trade missions are planned for Central and Eastern Europe. By joining the Business Dialogue, you’ll be among the first to hear about the latest developments. You’ll also receive tips on building a strong network. For successful business in Central and Eastern Europe, having a network and regional knowledge is essential.
Are you a Dutch entrepreneur ready to take on the challenge? Join us and expand your knowledge through:
- a plenary session featuring practical information and current developments;
- interactive workshops with regional experts and experienced entrepreneurs;
- networking moments with experts and fellow entrepreneurs.
Programme
More information about the programme will be shared soon. Keep an eye on this page.
Registration and participation
Participation in the event is free of charge. The working language is English. Registration opens on Tuesday, 28 October 2025. Would you like to receive a reminder directly in your inbox when registration opens? Then sign up for the alert! Also keep an eye on the RVO event calendar (Dutch) and follow the weekly RVO newsletter.
Organisation
The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) is organising this Business Dialogue in collaboration with Rotterdam Partners, partners from the Trade & Innovate NL network, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Dutch embassy network in the countries involved.
Want to know more?
Do you have any questions? Please contact the organising team at the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).
For content-related questions:
Sophie van der Schrier, Coordinator Business Dialogue Central and Eastern Europe
E: [email protected]
For organisational and logistical questions:
Joyce van Elck, Business Development Liaison Events
E: [email protected]
Commissioned by: Ministry of Foreign Affairs