From 6 to 8 October 2025 a delegation of Dutch suppliers of greenhouse technologies visited the Italian regions of Veneto and Lombardy. The mission aimed to gain first-hand insights into the Italian protected horticulture market, including its regulatory framework, research initiatives and investment climate.
Beeld: © LAN Rome
The Dutch Horticultural Model: A Benchmark for Innovation
The Netherlands is internationally recognised as a global leader in sustainable greenhouse cultivation, seed breeding and high-tech production systems. As one of the country’s most competitive sectors, horticulture generates substantial economic value and strengthens the Dutch position in international agri-food trade.
The sector’s success lies in the synergy between production, knowledge and innovation. Moreover, its contribution goes far beyond economics: Dutch horticulture plays a pivotal role in tackling societal challenges such as the energy transition, climate adaptation and the move towards circular agriculture.
Beeld: © LAN Rome
Visit at the Centro Sperimentale Ortofloricolo 'Po di Tramontana' of Veneto Agricoltura
Shared Challenges, Shared Opportunities
Italy faces many of the same structural challenges — including climate change, environmental pressures, competitiveness and labour shortages. This creates fertile ground for knowledge exchange and technological cooperation, particularly in regions like Veneto and Lombardy where protected horticulture is rapidly developing.
A Diverse Delegation of Dutch Expertise
The mission brought together a wide range of Dutch companies specialising in:
- Greenhouse structures
- Climate and lighting systems
- Irrigation and water technologies
- Sensor technology and crop monitoring
- Robotics and data platforms
- Substrate and cultivation systems
- Sustainable energy solutions
- Biological pest management and integrated pest control
These technologies contribute significantly to national and international sustainability objectives, supporting both resource efficiency and productivity growth.
Beeld: © LAN Rome
Building Partnerships Across the Value Chain
During the visit, the delegation engaged with Italian growers, cooperatives, sector organisations, regional authorities and leading policy and research institutes. These meetings offered valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge, expand networks and explore future collaboration.
Beeld: © LAN Rome
Looking Ahead
The mission was met with great hospitality and openness from the Italian hosts. Their willingness to share experiences and discuss challenges transparently laid solid foundations for continued engagement.
The Netherlands and Italy share a clear ambition: to build a resilient, sustainable and competitive horticultural sector. This mission represents an important step towards new partnerships and joint innovation projects capable of addressing both economic and environmental challenges.