The mission aims to help more women-led businesses expand internationally, as Scotland marks International Women’s Day.

Across Scotland, women are leading ambitious and innovative businesses, yet too few are tapping into global trade opportunities. Research from the Scottish Government shows that Scotland could increase its exports by between £3.4 billion and £10.3bn over two years if women-led businesses exported at the same rate as those led by men.

This trade mission aims to address that gap by giving women entrepreneurs the confidence, networks, and market insights needed to grow internationally.

The Netherlands is one of Scotland’s most significant and longstanding export partners, offering a highly connected gateway to European markets. Scotland’s exports to the Netherlands were worth £6.9bn in 2023, and the country is known for its strong culture of innovation and international trade. The Dutch market presents opportunities for Scottish businesses across sectors including technology, food and drink, energy, and professional services.

Led by the Scottish Chambers of Commerce in partnership with Scottish Government, and delivered by the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, the two‑day mission will take place on 26 – 28 May 2026. During the visit, the delegation will engage directly with Dutch business leaders, gain first‑hand insight into emerging market trends, and explore opportunities to build new commercial partnerships.

The programme will also provide opportunities for participants to showcase their products and services to potential buyers, distributors, and decision‑makers, positioning their businesses for long‑term international growth.

Jacqueline Dobson, president of Barrhead Travel Group and vice president of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “Scotland has no shortage of talented and ambitious women leading exceptional businesses, yet the export gap demonstrates that they are not accessing global opportunities at the same rate as their male counterparts.

“This mission is a practical step toward changing that. By opening doors, building networks and giving women the confidence to compete internationally, we can unlock new growth for Scotland.

“Highlighting female leadership on the global stage shows the world what Scotland has to offer and ensures our economy benefits from the full strength of women’s contribution.”

Liz McAreavey, director of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce board and CEO of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, added: “Too often I’ve seen women hold themselves back in their career progression, flattered but reluctant when asked to put themselves forward for a more senior position or even think about international trade for their businesses.

“International Women’s Day should be a day of reflection on how we all give our support and encouragement to the talented and ambitious women we are fortunate to have in abundance in Scotland.

“Women‑led businesses contribute immense value to Scotland’s economy, and it is vital that we continue to remove barriers and expand opportunities. We are looking forward to our first all-female entrepreneurs trade mission to the Netherlands in May, supporting and accelerating their confidence and growth potential.”

Scottish Government Business Minister Richard Lochhead said: “The Scottish Government is committed to this trade mission as part of our work to address the gender export gap and empower female entrepreneurs to step confidently into the global marketplace.

“Groundbreaking research carried out as part of our Gender Export Gap report estimates that Scotland’s trade could increase by between £3.4bn to £10.3bn over two years if women-led businesses exported at the same rate as companies led by men.

“This work aligns with our Pathways Programme, in which we have invested more than £9 million since 2023 to support women with to start and grow their own businesses.”

Women-led businesses interested in joining the mission can find further details and register their interest by contacting Stuart Hamilton at the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (shamilton@scottishchambers.org.uk) or the international team at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce (international@edinburghchamber.co.uk).