● MHI started business in 1980 in the Netherlands by taking over SAMOFA, an engine manufacturer for marine applications. Over the following years, the company’s business expanded in Europe, helped by the commencement of sales and later also production of turbo chargers from 1988 under the name of MHI Equipment Europe BV. This proved to be a good move—the business has grown very rapidly since.
  ● Why in the Netherlands? We are known
for our trading culture, which has its origins in the 17th century when trading brought us many new
experiences from the Far East. Among the many countries we established contacts with was Japan, who for quite a long time allowed only the Dutch to trade with them. Since then, Japan and the Netherlands have always maintained close relationships, and there are still many Japanese companies located in the Netherlands.
  ● What is typically Dutch? Wooden clogs, tulips and windmills. Wind power has been an energy source for small industry for ages and the windmills protected our country against the water—40% of our country’s surface is below sea level. Wooden clogs were used by farmers in the past centuries, and the tulips are our beloved flowers, available in many varieties that can be seen in the Keukenhof flower garden every year in spring—a very famous event!
  ● On a culinary level, we are known for potatoes, traditionally combined with vegetables and some meat, like in pea soup. But, thanks to our trading history all kinds of international dishes can be found here. Other famous Dutch products are the Dutch cheese, Jenever, a strong liquor made from grain and of course Heineken Beer, which needs no further introduction.
  ● But, we are best known for our flood control technologies, which are not only necessary for keeping the economy going but will also be essential over the years to come!