Dutch corporate income tax is a tax levied on the profits of companies operating in the Netherlands. The current Dutch corporate tax rate is 19% for taxable profits up to €200,000 and 25.8% for taxable profits above that amount. 

The Dutch tax system is designed to be favorable to businesses, making it an attractive location for multinational companies and startups alike. In addition to the relatively low corporate tax rate, the Netherlands also offers a range of tax incentives and exemptions to encourage businesses to invest and grow. For example, the Netherlands has a “participation exemption” which allows companies to receive dividends and capital gains tax-free if they own more than 5% of the shares in another company. 

One of the most well-known features of the Dutch tax system is the “Dutch sandwich” or “double Dutch”, a tax structure that allows companies to reduce their overall tax bill by routing profits through the Netherlands. This structure takes advantage of the country’s favorable tax treaties with other countries and the Netherlands’ own favorable tax rules, making it an attractive option for companies looking to minimize their tax liabilities. 

Another important aspect of the Dutch tax system is the “innovation box”, which provides tax benefits for companies that are engaged in research and development activities. Under the innovation box regime, a portion of a company’s profits can be taxed at a lower rate (7%) if they are derived from innovative activities. This incentivizes companies to invest in research and development, which can drive economic growth and create new job opportunities. 

In conclusion, the Dutch corporate income tax system is designed to be favorable to businesses and provides a range of tax incentives and exemptions to encourage companies to invest and grow. The relatively low corporate tax rate, the participation exemption, and the innovation box are all key features that make the Netherlands an attractive location for companies looking to reduce their tax liabilities and maximize their profits.