GOAL: Establishing collaboration and partnerships between New Zealand and the Netherlands in order to develop towards a sustainable and future-proof fruit sector using digital and robotic technologies.
From 18 November 2024 to 22 November 2024, New Zealand hosted a Dutch delegation as part of an Innovation Mission focused on developing sustainable and future-proof fruit technologies. This mission brought together Dutch companies, researchers, and government representatives to explore opportunities for collaboration with New Zealand in research, innovation, and business.
AgriTech New Zealand played a pivotal role in supporting the Mission and we are proud to have created an opportunity for our Members and the wider ecosystem to connect.
Shared Vision for the Future
Both New Zealand and the Netherlands are global leaders in agriculture and horticulture, renowned for producing high-quality food. While these sectors have traditionally prioritized efficiency and productivity, the mission addressed modern challenges like sustainability and labor shortages through innovative solutions.
Harnessing Technology to Transform Horticulture
The delegation highlighted how digital and robotic technologies are key to overcoming these challenges. These innovations enable precise, data-driven decisions and automation of farm tasks, reducing reliance on labor and minimizing chemical inputs. The Dutch government’s €450 million investment in “hands-free labor in agriculture and food” underscored their commitment to advancing these technologies.
Strengthening Partnerships
New Zealand’s vibrant fruit sector, with its focus on digitalization and automation, was recognized as an ideal partner for collaboration. Initiatives such as the Horizon Europe program and other funding mechanisms were identified as valuable avenues for fostering joint innovation.
Delegation Highlights
The Dutch delegation featured experts from various sectors, including:
- Advanced orchard monitoring and precision spraying (e.g., BB Leap).
- Autonomous robotic systems.
- CO₂ solutions for greenhouse growers (SkyTree).
- Wageningen University & Research, providing expertise in robotics and plant sciences.
- Rabobank, a leading global agricultural financier.
- Representatives from the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture and the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority.
The mission was led by Dr. Richard Harrison, Director of the Plant Sciences Group at Wageningen University & Research and Captain of Science for Topsector Horticulture and Starting Materials.
This week-long mission was an important step in strengthening ties between New Zealand and the Netherlands, paving the way for innovative, sustainable solutions in the global fruit sector.
Host Organisations
