NL participation at FIRA USA 2024

The United States and the Netherlands share a longstanding cooperation in agriculture. Both our countries are important partners in horticulture and agrifood and are globally well-known as leading producers of high-quality agricultural and horticultural products. A Dutch trade mission with companies active in AgTech and robotics will visit FIRA USA 2024

California - Netherlands Partnership to advance Climate Smart Practices in agriculture

As major agricultural producers, both the Netherlands and California face similar challenges, such as climate change impacts, pest and disease pressure, and significant labor shortages.

To address these challenges, the California Department of Agriculture and the Netherlands Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, signed a Letter of Intent to promote collaboration in climate-smart and sustainable agricultural production. Also with strong support from the Netherlands Consulate General in San Francisco, this has resulted in a robust partnership known as the Global Controlled Environment Agriculture Consortium. Alongside cooperation in indoor production, there is a focus on expanding innovations for outdoor cultivation, including field production and orchards.

Innovation in automation and robotics is crucial for advancing our sectors in a more sustainable, efficient, and profitable manner. Private sector companies and research institutes play a vital role in leading the way by inventing and implementing innovative solutions, creating proofs of concept that can inspire others.

NXTGEN Hightech program supports innovation with US$ 1.1 billion investments by 2030

In May 2023 the Netherlands launched NXTGEN Hightech. The goal of this program is to contribute to solutions for major societal challenges. To achieve this, the NXTGEN Hightech program will invest approximately US$ 1.1 billion by 2030 and will boost the Dutch economy with 330 partners. Over the next 7 years, intensive work will be conducted in six core domains (agrifood, biomedical production technology, energy, composites, laser satellite communication, and semiconductors) to develop smart solutions. Across these domains, system technologies, systems engineering, and smart industry play a crucial role.

The program is a collaboration of leading Dutch companies and knowledge institutes in the agrifood sector, working together to bringing revolutionary innovations that make our food production more efficient, sustainable, and resilient.

NXTGEN High-tech Agrifood is about the fusion of knowledge, technology and human potential. This powerful combination leads to breakthrough innovations that completely transform the way we produce and process food.

Innovations per sector

  • Hands-free Open Cultivation, Livestock & Orchard: Advanced technologies such as self-propelled tractors and automatic harvesters help farmers work more efficiently and in an environmentally friendly manner.
  • Hands-free Horticulture: We combine modern technology with extensive horticultural knowledge to intelligently control plant growth. By using artificial intelligence, we optimize resource use and minimize food waste, leading to innovative business models and improved collaboration. 
  • Hands-free Food Processing: Advanced robotics and automation are making the food processing industry more efficient, safer and more enjoyable for workers. For more information about NXTGEN Hightech see:   https://nxtgenhightech.nl/en/agrifood/

Dutch delegation @ FIRA USA 2024

Many esteemed Dutch companies and partners will be participating at the FIRA USA. With the extensive knowledge and networks of the diverse participants in this mission,  we are confident it will facilitate mutual learning and sharing, creating opportunities to positively influence the future of plant production in both California and the Netherlands.

Please find the company profiles in this mission booklet.

Let's connect and collaborate on innovative solutions for our shared global challenges!

We will be at the FIRA, but if you would like to connect beforehand, please email us at:

WAS-LNV@MINBUZA.NL