The Netherlands exported €128.9 billion worth of agricultural goods in 2024. That is almost 5 per cent more compared to the previous year. Volume increased slightly, but the increase was mainly due to price developments. Dairy and eggs, ornamental plant products and meat remain the most popular export products. Dutch agricultural imports were estimated at €86.1 billion in 2024, up 3.2% from 2023. This is according to the annual study by Wageningen Social & Economic Research (WSER) and Statistics Netherlands (CBS) commissioned by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN).
"The Dutch agri-food sector is a world-class innovative top sector. It is high time we reaffirm our pride in this important sector with full conviction. It is crucial to maintain our strong international position, especially in times of geopolitical challenges." Femke Marije Wiersma, LVVN minister
"We are proud of farmers, market gardeners and fishermen who work hard every day to provide food for the Netherlands and the world. After all, food security cannot be taken for granted. With our Dutch knowledge and expertise, we make an indispensable contribution to food security worldwide." Jean Rummenie, state secretary ministry LVVN
The European Union is by far the largest export market for the Netherlands, with a share of 72.2% in 2024. In 2023, it was 71.1%. Most agricultural exports in 2024, as in previous years, will go to our neighbouring countries. Of the estimated total exports, a quarter (25%) will go to Germany. In second place is Belgium with 12%.
Two-thirds of exports are Dutch-made products, accounting for almost 90% of export earnings.
Dairy and eggs (€12.3 billion), ornamental plant products (€11.9 billion), meat (€10.7 billion), cocoa and preparations (€9.9 billion) and potatoes and vegetables (€8.9 billion) are the top commodity groups in exports. The top five account for nearly 42% of the total export value in 2024.
The Report The Dutch agricultural sector in an international context - 2025 edition describes the development of Dutch agricultural trade in 2024. Wageningen Social and Economic Research and CBS provide first estimates of agricultural trade figures for 2024. In addition, the report discusses how much the Netherlands earns from agricultural trade. It also highlights that the Dutch agri-food sector is an important sector internationally, characterised by innovative entrepreneurship, knowledge and expertise and a unique logistical position.
