In the early 17th century, European countries were engaged in fierce competition for control over trade routes and resources, particularly in Asia, where the lucrative spice trade was dominated by rival powers like Portugal and Spain. To better compete, a group of Dutch merchants sought to establish a more organized and powerful trading entity. On March 20, 1602, they formed the Dutch East India Company (Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie, or VOC) in Amsterdam. This marked the beginning of a new era in global trade and colonial expansion. The VOC was granted an official charter by the States-General of the Netherlands, which bestowed upon it the authority to act with the same rights as a sovereign nation. It could negotiate treaties, wage wars, and establish colonies in Asia. The VOC’s primary focus was to monopolize the spice trade, particularly in the Malay Archipelago and the Moluccas, known as the Spice Islands.

The significance of the VOC's formation was profound. This company became instrumental in the Dutch Golden Age, fueling economic prosperity and enabling the Netherlands to become a major world power. The VOC was unique in its structure, as it was a publicly traded company, allowing merchants and investors to buy shares. This innovation not only attracted vast amounts of capital but also incorporated a broader segment of the population into its economic enterprises. Over the years, the VOC established a network of trade posts and colonies spanning Asia, from present-day Indonesia to parts of India and Japan, profoundly impacting the global trading landscape.

The operations of the Dutch East India Company were often marked by aggressive tactics, including military engagement and alliance-building with local rulers. The company's influence grew, making it the first multinational corporation and the first company to issue stock. Its activities laid the groundwork for modern corporate structures and practices, setting a precedent for future global trade enterprises.