The visit of a delegation of high-level Argentinian professionals has underscored the deep commitment of both The Netherlands and Argentina to advancing agricultural technology and fostering a robust global seed sector. Organized by the Agricultural Office of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Argentina and Naktuinbouw, this strategic visit saw key Argentine seed sector representatives immerse themselves in Dutch excellence, exploring cutting-edge R&D systems, intellectual property frameworks, and phytosanitary standards. The overarching goal? To significantly boost Argentina's local competitiveness in the horticultural seed market.
Beeld: © LAN Cono Sur
The Netherlands, globally recognized for its leadership in agricultural technological development, provided an ideal learning ground. Its success is built on a powerful model of public-private cooperation, substantial investment in research and development, and proactive policies safeguarding plant intellectual property. The Argentine delegation, comprising representatives from the Agricultural Office of the Embassy, the Department of Biotechnology (Secretary of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries) , National Food Safety and Quality Service (SENASA) , National Insitute of Seeds (INASE) , the Argentine Rural Society (SRA) , and the Argentine Seed Association (ASA) , gained firsthand insights into the intricate systems of research, development, production, and commercialization of horticultural seeds.
The focus of the visit was to analyze cases and share best practices related to intellectual property, breeders' rights, and the compelling benefits of adhering to the 1991 Act of the UPOV Convention. Discussions also delved into biotechnology and international phytosanitary standards – all fundamental elements for fostering innovation, ensuring traceability, and strengthening the competitiveness of Argentina's horticultural sector.
During this extensive tour, Dutch companies and entities unveiled the secrets behind their industry's success, a market valued at an impressive 4.5 billion euros. The emphasis, they demonstrated, lies across the entire production chain: developing varieties that seamlessly combine high yields, stringent sanitary standards, and organoleptic attributes that directly cater to consumer preferences.
"This mission allowed us to identify concrete opportunities to improve the Argentine market, driving innovation and competitiveness in horticultural seed production," noted one participant.
The ASA representative highlighted the direct engagement, stating, "We were able to directly meet the companies working on genetic improvement, those active in vegetables and horticulture, potato companies, and finally, the floriculture sector in its various uses".
The delegation's initial stop at Naktuinbouw, the Dutch organization responsible for the registration, inspection, and quality control of seeds and ornamental plants, proved particularly insightful. This organization plays a pivotal role in guaranteeing the genetic and sanitary quality of commercialized plant material. During this crucial meeting, attended by officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Quality, and Nature of the Netherlands, the delegation discussed mechanisms to encourage new investments in the Argentine horticultural sector.
The four day visit, which included subsequent visits to companies, innovation centers, and regulatory bodies, also served to strengthen the bilateral institutional ties. It marked a significant step forward in modernizing Argentina's seed system, effectively consolidating a strategic bridge for the exchange of plant genetics and food security between these two pivotal agricultural nations. The work carried out and the strengthened agenda of topics between Argentina and The Netherlands are crucial for cultivating a future of shared growth and innovation in the global agricultural landscape.
More information
Would you like to know more about the work done by the LVVN Office in Argentina and the ongoing projects the LAN Cono Sur team is involved in? You can visit the country page of Argentina at the website Agroberichtenbuitenland.nl of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature. You can also send an email to the LAN team in Buenos Aires: bue-lvvn@minbuza.nl.