Development of sector specific clusters of Dutch companies (and sometimes other organizations) meets the needs of Ukraine and the policy of the Netherlands government in providing the cluster members with up-to-date information on business and investment opportunities in Ukraine but also on the current risks posed by the war.

Due to the war, Ukrainian agriculture is under pressure. Labor shortages, irrigation problems, and transport restrictions are common. Yet, there are opportunities. The Netherlands can help with expertise, modern techniques, and smart solutions. Think of precision agriculture, improved soil analysis, post-harvest processing, and access to new markets.

What is a cluster?

A Group of Dutch and Ukrainian organizations that work together to:

  • Create focus in reconstruction efforts
  • Identify needs in their sector
  • Collaborate on relevant projects
  • Respond to leads coming from Ukrainian stakeholders

See below the current priority clusters of the Agrifood platform Ukraine

Cluster Novel crops

There are opportunities for new crops, new applications of crops and for the expansion of existing crops in Ukraine.

Learn more about reports on this topic and follow up activities of the cluster

Cluster Horticulture (Covered cultivation)

The protected cultivation sector in Ukraine faces various challenges. The war is causing unpredictable energy supply, limited investments, and other disruptions. Shortages of workers, training, and financing are also a problem.

At the same time, this sector is essential for the supply of fresh food, income for rural areas, and the restoration of value chains. Consequently, most Ukrainian greenhouses plan to continue developing and investing.

Learn more about reports and follow up activities of the cluster

Cluster Soil management

(in development)

Ukraine currently cultivates about 24 million hectares of land, which are under great pressure caused by a number of factors, such as climate change, outdated cultivation technologies, economic pressure, destruction of infrastructure (including irrigation and drainage), as well as military impact on the soil, such as mining, contamination with explosives, chemicals, and soil damage due to demining. 

The Netherlands is actively involved in international initiatives aimed at demining of agricultural land. It also supports donor projects to restore soil fertility. However, there are still areas of work where the unique Dutch expertise can qualitatively change soil managements in Ukraine and introduce sustainable land use practices.

More information