The Netherlands and Ukraine have significant potential to support each other in Ukraine’s agricultural sector. A recent report, “Cultivation and Chain Development of Novel Crops in Ukraine”, commissioned by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl), Schuttelaar & Partners, and Agri & Food Support Altena B.V., outlines the opportunities for collaboration.
The report provides an overview of areas where the Netherlands can contribute to innovation and development in Ukrainian agriculture.
Innovation and Reinforcement in Ukrainian Agriculture
The ongoing Russian invasion has placed Ukrainian agriculture under severe pressure, with labour shortages, irrigation challenges, and transport restrictions. Despite these difficulties, opportunities exist for modernization. Dutch expertise, advanced techniques, and smart solutions can play a key role — ranging from precision agriculture and improved soil analysis to post-harvest processing and access to new markets, according to a press relese.
Potential for New and Existing Crops
Ukraine has potential for both novel crops and the expansion of existing ones:
- New crops: sweet potato, leek, and field beans.
- Expansion of existing crops: peas for starch and soybeans for human consumption, meeting the rising demand for plant-based proteins.
- Fiber crops: hemp and flax, which can be scaled up while supporting soil regeneration.
These crops could foster economic growth and aid the recovery of areas heavily affected by the conflict.
Opportunities for Dutch Businesses
Dutch companies can contribute in several ways:
- Sharing knowledge through training and advisory services on modern cultivation methods.
- Providing technology, including machinery, irrigation systems, and digital applications.
- Collaborating across the supply chain—from production and processing to export.
- Offering sustainable solutions such as soil regeneration and circular agriculture techniques.
The ultimate goal is to build a resilient, future-proof agricultural sector benefiting both Ukraine and the Netherlands.
