November 22, 2024
With over 23 million residents, Shanghai is determined to ensure a sustainable supply of food for its citizens. A delegation of Chinese companies and the local Shanghai government, visited the Netherlands to explore possibilities for a joint venture to establish such a supply chain–a model that could possibly feed 17 such megacities and 1.4 billion citizens. A challenge that further emphasizes the need for innovative agricultural solutions. Recognizing the Netherlands as a global leader in horticulture, China is turning to Dutch expertise to help address these challenges through impactful partnerships.
By communications expert Sander van Rijn on LinkedIn.
Known worldwide for its efficient and sustainable food production systems, China recognizes the Netherlands as “the world’s best” in horticulture. Its advanced greenhouse technologies, resource-efficient farming practices, and commitment to sustainability have attracted significant attention from China, where urbanization and environmental pressures demand new approaches to provide food for its citizens.
Over recent months, delegations from Shanghai have visited the Netherlands to explore the opportunities for joint ventures. Visits that have set the stage for dynamic partnerships aimed at developing resilient and efficient agricultural systems tailored to China’s needs. This milestone event underscored the mutual commitment to combining Dutch innovation with Chinese scale to tackle the challenges of feeding Shanghai’s growing population–and other rapidly growing urban areas.
These discussions focused on developing long-term partnerships, leveraging Dutch horticultural expertise to modernize Shanghai’s food production systems while fostering mutual economic opportunities, and minimizing environmental impact.
Next month, a Dutch delegation will visit Shanghai to continue these talks and conceptualize possible partnerships. This visit will enable Dutch companies to gain a more in-depth understanding of Shanghai’s agricultural ecosystem, cultivating tailored solutions and sustainable collaboration.
This partnership is supported by organizations such as Dutch Greenhouse Delta, Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (RVO), Gemeente Westland, InnovationQuarter, and companies like Artechno Growsystems, Bayer, Priva, and Greengrounds. Their expertise has been essential in building bridges between Dutch and Chinese stakeholders.
The outcomes of these talks have meaningful implications that stretch beyond Shanghai, offering a model for feeding megacities and urban areas globally. By integrating Dutch innovation into Chinese agriculture, both nations are taking meaningful steps to ensure food security, reduce environmental impact, and meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Together, the Netherlands and Shanghai are proving that international cooperation and innovation are key to addressing global challenges, setting an inspiring example for the world.