Dutch innovation mission plants seeds of climate-water smart agriculture in Egypt
A recent innovation mission from the Netherlands to Egypt, held from May 19-22, has shown a high potential for Dutch expertise to contribute to the resilience and sustainability of Egyptian agriculture. The mission, organized by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) on behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN), brought together 13 Dutch companies and knowledge institutes to engage with their Egyptian counterparts and explore collaborative opportunities in climate and water-smart agriculture.
This mission represents the "Dutch Diamond Approach," facilitating a powerful exchange of knowledge and experience between Dutch and Egyptian entities. The focus was on addressing the shared challenges of climate change, particularly water scarcity, soil degradation, and rising temperatures, which are impacting agricultural production in both countries.
Egypt's Growing Market Embraces Dutch Innovation
Egypt is experiencing rapid agricultural expansion as the nation strives to support its own food security and compete in the global market. This growth, coupled with the intensifying impacts of climate change, has created a strong demand for innovative solutions. The Dutch delegation, comprised of leading experts in areas ranging from robotics weeding to advanced soil analysis and water technologies, found a receptive audience eager to adopt cutting-edge techniques to optimize water use and maximize yields.
“Egyptian agriculture is expanding and advancing rapidly. Where in the past this expansion could be supported by adapting existing knowledge and technology to the local context, Egypt is investing gradually more in its own knowledge development and R&D to keep on growing," said Tycho Vermeulen, Agricultural Counsellor to Egypt and Jordan at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Egypt, in his foreword. "This Innovation Mission is one of many activities that aim to introduce relevant technology and knowledge through close collaboration with local stakeholders in Egypt”.
A Deep Dive into Climate-Smart Solutions
The mission itinerary was packed with site visits, networking events, and one-on-one meetings designed to foster meaningful connections. The delegation visited leading Egyptian agricultural companies, including MAFA, Mozare3, EGAST, Cairo 3A, Belco, and Dakahlia Group, providing firsthand insights into the local challenges and opportunities.
The Dutch participants represented a diverse range of expertise, including:
Acacia Water offered sustainable and equitable water management strategies. Broere Irrigatie presented expertise in irrigation systems, water harvesting, and solar power for efficient water utilization. eLEAF's remote sensing technology promised enhanced water management for optimal crop growth, while Eurofins Agro highlighted agricultural laboratories providing crucial soil, crop, and water analysis to optimize nutrient and water use.
Delphy showcased agricultural consultancy, research, and innovative solutions for sustainable farming. Normec Groen Agro Control detailed laboratory and research services focused on plant growth, disease control, and residue analysis.
WEED-IT powered by Rometron demonstrated precision spraying technology capable of reducing herbicide use through targeted weed detection and elimination.
MA emphasized its ability to translate complex sensor data into practical growing advice, and Spaak Circular Solutions offered techno-commercial solutions focused on the valorization of organic residues in the agri-food and water sectors.
Research and education institutions like Aeres University for Applied Science and Wageningen University and Research presented opportunities for knowledge transfer, applied research, and specialized expertise. Jaguar the fresh company emphasized its potential to strengthen Egypt's citrus sector with its global reach and market knowledge, and the Netherlands Food Partnership (NFP) outlined its mission to connect agrifood initiatives in support of more sustainable food systems.
From Robotic Weeding to Data-Driven Irrigation
The mission highlighted numerous opportunities for Dutch companies and universities to contribute to Egypt's agricultural transformation. From robotic weeding technologies like those offered by WEED-IT, which can significantly reduce herbicide use, to sophisticated soil analysis services from Normec and Eurofins Agro that optimize fertilizer application, the potential for increased efficiency and sustainability is immense. Water technologies from companies like Broere Irrigatie and insights from eLEAF are crucial for helping Egypt utilize its precious water resources more effectively, particularly as the country expands its agricultural land.
The Dutch approach emphasizes data-driven decision-making, integrating advanced sensor technologies and data analytics to optimize irrigation, soil, and crop management. This resonates strongly with Egypt's ambition to modernize its agricultural sector and enhance its competitiveness.
Building a resilient agriculture sector in Egypt
The innovation mission to Egypt serves as a successful example of international collaboration, demonstrating how Dutch expertise can play a vital role in supporting the resilience and sustainability of agriculture in the face of climate change. By fostering knowledge exchange and facilitating partnerships, this initiative paves the way for a more productive and sustainable agricultural future for Egypt. As Egypt continues to expand its agricultural sector, the integration of Dutch technologies and knowledge will be important for supporting Egypt.
More information
Watch the video coverage of the innovation mission on LinkedIn.
For more news, follow NL-Masr Agri-Food Network on LinkedIn . The agriculture team at the Dutch Embassy stands ready to help any Dutch company interested in doing business with Egypt. For more information, please contact: kai-lvvn@minbuza.nl