Different markets, different business cultures, but a shared interest in working together. A Dutch dairy mission to Kazakhstan on 19–21 October 2026 brought entrepreneurs and experts together to explore opportunities, exchange experiences and strengthen mutual understanding. Building sustainable business partnerships takes time, but the enthusiasm and commitment on both sides provide a promising foundation.
Beeld: © East-West Trade & consulting / Visit of Dutch Dairy mission to En Dala dairy farm in Kazakhstan
Dutch dairy mission visiting En Dala dairy farm in Kazakhstan
Exploring opportunities on the ground
Organised by East-West Trade & Consulting, the mission brought nine Dutch dairy companies to Kazakhstan to explore business opportunities and develop new connections.
Beeld: © East-West Trade & consulting / Visit of Dutch Dairy mission to RnR Group's dairy processing plant
Dutch dairy mission visiting RnR Group's dairy processing plant
Visits to RnR Group's new dairy processing plant, En Dala dairy farm, Ramadan Farm and Eurasia Invest provided valuable insights into Kazakhstan's dairy sector, its ambitions and the challenges facing local producers.
Connecting businesses and knowledge
Beeld: © LVVN Astana / Dutch Agricultural Counsellor to Kazakhstan Arie Veldhuizen with Kazakh Vice-Minister of Agriculture Azat Sultanov at KazAgro exhibition
Arie Veldhuizen, Agricultural Counsellor of the Netherlands with Azat Sultanov, Vice-Minister of Agriculture of Kazakhstan
At the KazAgro exhibition in Astana, Agricultural Counsellor Arie Veldhuizen highlighted business opportunities and the potential of the Partners for International Business (PIB) programme. Matchmaking sessions encouraged direct exchanges between Dutch and Kazakh businesses.
A matchmaking programme enabled delegates to connect with Kazakhstani businesses and explore potential partnerships.
Beeld: © East-West Trade & consulting / Dutch pavilion at KazAgro exhibition in Kazakhstan
Dutch pavilion at KazAgro exhibition in Kazakhstan
At the Netherlands Pavilion, Holland Farming BV, Royal De Boer, Globifield and Agrico presented Dutch agricultural products, technologies and services.
Beeld: © Zholaman Sungat / Dutch dairy delegation at Kazakh Agrarian University
Dutch dairy mission visited Kazakh Agrarian University named after S.Seifullin
A visit to S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University explored opportunities for cooperation in research, education and practical training. The delegation was introduced to the university’s research and educational capabilities, laboratories and practical training facilities. Discussions covered agricultural engineering and automation, food technology, livestock production, veterinary medicine, agriculture and forestry.
Building partnerships for the long term
Dutch–Kazakh agricultural cooperation is developing through the combined efforts of businesses, knowledge institutions and governments. Different market conditions, business practices and expectations make this a challenging process requiring patience, trust and mutual understanding.
The Netherlands can contribute not only technology, but also knowledge, training and long-term services.
Much remains to be done. Yet the willingness on both sides to learn from each other and explore opportunities together provides a valuable foundation for lasting partnerships and more sustainable food systems.
Beeld: © LVVN Astana / Dutch dairy delegation at KazAgro/KazFarm exhibition 2026
Dutch dairy delegation at KazAgro/KazFarm exhibition