The Dutch tonnage regulations were adjusted back in 2010. Since that time, however, the shipping industry has evolved. New types of ships have entered service; ships deployed for the construction of offshore wind farms, for example. These ships are not included in the tonnage regulations, but should be due to the nature of their operations.

This can be achieved, for instance, by broadening the scope of regulations as much as possible; in other words, a technically neutral regulation. After all, the tonnage scheme contributes to the competitive position of Dutch shipowners relative to their competitors around the world. Furthermore, the tonnage regulation is of vital importance for the maintaining the appeal of the Dutch flag.

In preparation for this evaluation process, the KVNR, together with its members, has drawn up proposals for improvements for the tonnage scheme and presented these to the government. The evaluation report is expected to be published in the first half of 2021.