From May 26 to 28, 2025, a high-level Dutch trade mission led by the Dutch Vice Minister for Agriculture, Marten van den Berg, brought together 32 delegates representing 19 innovative Dutch companies and expert organizations to explore Ghana’s vibrant horticulture sector. This strategic visit aimed to deepen bilateral ties, unlock investment opportunities, and foster sustainable partnerships that can fuel the future of horticulture in Ghana.
Hosted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ghana, the three-day trade mission brought together business leaders, government representatives, and knowledge institutions from both countries. Led by the Vice Minister of Agriculture of the Netherlands, Marten van den Berg, the mission set out to strengthen Ghana-Dutch collaboration and unlock new avenues for agribusiness growth.
Key Activities and Engagements
The mission commenced with a distinguished business reception at the Dutch Embassy in Accra, attended by key stakeholders including the trade delegation, government officials, representatives from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), Ghanaian agribusinesses, and horticultural sector actors.
In his opening remarks, H.E. Jeroen Verheul, the Dutch Ambassador to Ghana, emphasized the shared ambition to deepen commercial ties and explore collaborative opportunities for mutual value creation.
"The Netherlands believes in partnerships grounded in local realities, aligned with national priorities, and driven by mutual benefit. In that spirit, we view Ghana not only as a promising investment destination but as a strategic partner in advancing inclusive and sustainable development” Ambassador Verheul
Vice Minister Marten van den Berg underscored the importance of collaboration in driving growth and improving productivity in Ghana’s horticulture industry.
“Dutch farmers have set high standards for productivity, efficiency, and innovation, building an agrifood industry that drives economic growth and enhances food security. Ghana recognizes the value of innovation in agriculture, making collaboration essential” Vice Minister
Hon. Godwin Asubonteng, the Ministerial Representative from the Ghanian Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to foreign investment, emphasizing the mission’s alignment with the Feed Ghana program, which aims to boost crop production for both domestic consumption and export markets.
The second day was marked by an inspiring visit to Iribov, a pioneering Dutch investment in Ghana. This showcased a successful example of technology transfer and local empowerment, illustrating the tangible benefits of Dutch expertise and investment in the horticultural sector. The day continued with a vibrant Farmer Field Day at Fruit Masters’ farm in Dabala, where Ghanaian farmers and agribusinesses engaged directly with Dutch experts to exchange knowledge on modern horticultural practices, technology adoption, and sustainable farming techniques.
On the third day, a highly productive matchmaking session facilitated direct business-to-business engagements between Dutch and Ghanaian companies, with over 40 Ghanaian businesses participating. This session laid the foundation for promising partnerships expected to drive innovation, investment, and market expansion for both nations.
The mission concluded with a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony at MoFA, witnessed by Hon. Eric Opoku, Ghana’s Minister for Food and Agriculture, and Vice Minister Marten van den Berg. The revised MoU established a Technical Working Group focused on Seeds, Agribusiness, and Cocoa, reinforcing the strategic partnership to promote horticultural development, trade, and technical exchange.
Additional highlights of the mission included a culinary journey showcasing Ghana’s rich biodiversity through the promotion of neglected and underutilized species. Delegates also visited Safisana, Eden Tree, and Nima Market to gain insights into composting, vegetable value addition, and production techniques.
Looking Ahead
This trade mission underscored the vast potential within Ghana’s horticultural sector and reaffirmed the critical role of international cooperation in agricultural transformation. The event concluded with renewed enthusiasm for partnerships and collaboration. As one participant reflected,
“This Trade Mission to Ghana is an eye-opener—not just for trade but for establishing meaningful, long-term partnerships.”
With Dutch companies’ active involvement and Ghana’s expanding market coupled with its commitment to sustainable agriculture, this collaboration promises to deliver enduring benefits and foster growth for both countries.