Production value of the fruit and vegetable sector in Netherlands rises to 3.9 billion euros

In 2020, the Dutch agricultural sector experienced a slight growth in value from 2019, despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. The sector's turnover increased by 0.2 million euros to 3.7 billion euros. However, the pandemic affected different segments of the industry unequally. While tomato growers had a tough year due to the collapse of the hotel and catering industry, bell pepper and aubergine growers saw higher prices. The pear industry had a positive first half, but a smaller harvest led to higher prices in the second half. The sale of 'catering products' like red currant, herbs, and cress was affected by the closure of restaurants. Despite these challenges, the Dutch export of fruit and vegetables increased by 6 percent to 12.9 billion euros, driven by imported fruit sold through the port of Rotterdam. Germany, the United Kingdom, and Belgium were the top three markets. However, exports to distant destinations like the United States and Japan fell due to the cancellation of passenger flights. Dutch imports of fresh fruit and vegetables also increased by 8 percent to 9 billion euros, with avocado, blueberry, and orange being the highest import products.