The Netherlands and China are strengthening their cooperation in greenhouse horticulture through a partnership focused on sustainability, innovation, and food security. More than a simple exchange of expertise, the collaboration reflects a shared effort to develop agricultural systems that are efficient, intelligent, and environmentally responsible.
This growing partnership was highlighted during the recent Hortiflorexpo IPM exhibition in Beijing. Under the theme “Farming the Future,” the Netherlands Pavilion, organized by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in China, presented an integrated vision of modern horticulture through interactive exhibits, technology demonstrations, and professional exchanges.
The pavilion brought together 51 Dutch companies representing the full horticultural value chain. Exhibits included seed breeding, advanced greenhouse systems, artificial intelligence-driven cultivation, logistics, and turnkey agricultural solutions. The display demonstrated the Netherlands’ expertise in sustainable horticulture and its long-standing commitment to cooperation with China.
According to Erik Smidt, Counsellor for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature at the Embassy of the Netherlands in China, Dutch companies are increasingly working alongside Chinese partners to create systems that combine local adaptability with international scalability. He noted that operating successfully in China today requires not only technological innovation, but also long-term commitment, cultural understanding, and mutual trust.
A central principle guiding the collaboration is the idea of achieving “more and better, with less.” André Haspels, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to China, emphasized the importance of reducing environmental impact while improving productivity. This includes minimizing the use of land, water, and energy, while bringing food production closer to consumers and increasing overall sustainability.
The event also featured the Netherlands–China Forum on Modern Greenhouse Horticulture Technologies and Applications, co-organized with the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. The forum gathered government officials, researchers, and industry representatives to discuss innovation and international cooperation in horticulture.
One of the key themes was the increasing role of artificial intelligence in agriculture. Dr. Wei Xiaoming explained how AI is helping China transition from traditional experience-based farming methods to precise, data-driven management systems. This shift is expected to improve efficiency, resource management, and crop control.
Additional insights focused on the Netherlands’ innovation ecosystem and the importance of integrated supply chains. Gert Dral highlighted how cooperation between Dutch and Chinese partners can improve productivity, strengthen energy efficiency, and enhance horticultural supply chains. Chinese companies shared examples of higher yields and improved product quality achieved by combining Dutch greenhouse technologies with local expertise, while Dutch companies demonstrated how their solutions can be successfully adapted for the Chinese market.
As both countries continue expanding cooperation, the Dutch Chinese partnership in greenhouse horticulture is becoming an important example of international collaboration in sustainable agriculture. By combining technological innovation, practical experience, and shared long-term goals, the partnership aims to contribute not only to agricultural development in both countries, but also to broader global food security challenges.
References
Ministerie van Landbouw, Visserij, Voedselzekerheid en Natuur. (2026, April 22). The Netherlands and China join hands in shaping a green and efficient future for greenhouse horticulture. Retrieved from Ministerie van Landbouw, Visserij, Voedselzekerheid en Natuur: https://www.agroberichtenbuitenland.nl/actueel/nieuws/2026/04/21/the-netherlands-and-china-join-hands-to-shape-a-green-and-efficient-future-for-greenhouse-horticulture?shem=rimspwouoe,
Photo: https://tse3.mm.bing.net/th/id/OIP.SzdKhzxI2MmqbR_FNwhEWgHaFj?r=0&rs=1&pid=ImgDetMain&o=7&rm=3