As of September 2025, an important change is imminent: the introduction of a revamped set of SBI codes. This Standard Business Classification is being revised by the Chamber of Commerce (KVK) and the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) to better reflect the modern economy. As an information partner in credit management, CreditDevice is closely following these developments and making sure you get through the transition without any problems. In this blog, we explain what is changing, why it is relevant and how you as an organization can properly prepare for it.
What are SBI codes again?
The SBI code is a standard by which companies are classified on the basis of their economic activities. This classification is important for statistics, benchmarking, risk assessment and (for many of our clients) determining creditworthiness, among other things. A correct SBI code can make the difference in, for example, access to financing, insurance or subsidies. During the Corona pandemic we saw how important the SBI coding was, certain subsidies were determined based on an organization’s SBI coding.
Why are the SBI codes being changed?
The current SBI classification dates back to 2008. Since then, the economic landscape has changed dramatically. Consider the rise of online platforms, hybrid business models and the demise of traditional sectors such as video stores. With the introduction of SBI 2025 CBS and KVK align with new European standards and ensure that statistics and policy information are future-proof again.
Important changes include:
- The disappearance of the distinction between online and physical commerce.
- Breaking up existing sectors, such as auto trade and repair.
- New codes for digital intermediaries such as comparison sites.
- All codes are given five digits (four-digit codes are completed with a “0”).
Specifically, what does this mean for your organization?
Between September 5 and 9, 2025 the KVK automatically adjusts the SBI codes of companies based on the registered company description. There is an important point of attention here: the new code is assigned on the basis of the description currently in the Trade Register. Is that description not up to date or not specific enough? Then there is a risk that you will be assigned an incorrect SBI code – with possible consequences for assessment by banks, insurance companies or credit insurers, for example.
The Chamber of Commerce will not process new registrations and changes these days, also the Trade Register will not be available to third parties, so we cannot purchase current Extracts.
The role of CreditDevice
As a specialist in credit management, we help companies understand both their financial position and the risks in their customer portfolio. We also look at underlying indicators such as the SBI code. Because this code is part of our scoring models, a change will have an impact on credit limits, risk analyses and compliance processes.
We therefore recommend the following:
- Check your business description with the Chamber of Commerce by September 2025.
- Use CBS’ tools to determine which new SBI code fits your activities.
- Let us know if you would like help interpreting the impact on your credit risk profile.
Working together for security
The introduction of SBI 2025 is more than an administrative change – it’s an opportunity to make your business information fully up-to-date again. As a partner, CreditDevice is happy to think with you, both strategically and operationally. Do you have questions about how this change affects your organization? Contact us – we’re ready to help.
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