Dutch sustainable smartphone manufacturer Fairphone calls on governments to boost impact through mission-driven partnerships

Fairphone has urged governments to collaborate more actively with mission-driven businesses. During a panel held in Amsterdam, timed with Dutch Queen Maxima’s official visit, Fairphone CEO Raymond van Eck stressed the importance of stronger government involvement to help scale ethical innovation in electronics. The company called for expanded Right to Repair legislation, standardized parts and connectors, and more ambitious eco-design requirements.

Dutch Queen Maxima visits Fairphone HQ

Queen Maxima’s visit to Fairphone’s headquarters was part of the celebration surrounding the company’s recent win of the Koning Willem I Prize 2024 for Sustainable Entrepreneurship. This recognition underlines Fairphone’s leadership in the European sustainable tech space. The royal visit offered a high-profile platform for discussion about the role of governments in driving responsible industry transformation.

Public and private sectors align

The panel featured notable figures including Marieke Snoep, Chief Consumer Market Officer at KPN, Fei Dong, General Manager of T2M Mobile, and Chris Janssen, State Secretary for Public Transport and the Environment. Discussions focused on topics like ethical production, responsible sourcing, innovation and the long-term societal impact of electronics.

Collaboration brings visibility and scale

Raymond van Eck emphasized how awards like the Koning Willem I Prize, and public-private collaboration help attract talent, partners, and investors. “We show that cutting-edge technology can go hand in hand with respect for people and planet,” he said.

KPN reinforces Fairphone partnership

Marieke Snoep added that KPN’s long-standing partnership with Fairphone reflects shared sustainability goals. KPN was the first provider in the Netherlands to offer Fairphone’s devices, including the latest Apple iPhone alternatives. She highlighted how consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability, which now plays a central role in KPN’s mission for a safer, greener, and more inclusive digital world.