Japan & the Netherlands: working on Japan’s future food system together
Food is life. Food is energy, health, and happiness. With the global population now over 8 billion people, we need to work together to make sure everyone has access to nutritious, high-quality, tasty food. Food systems around the world are under increased pressure for a variety of reasons. Population growth, climate change, biodiversity loss, dietary patterns, new trade realities, and food loss and waste all play a role in keeping the system in balance. The Netherlands is working towards a sustainable food system that benefits people, nature, and climate. Our approach centres around creating and facilitating nutritious, accessible, available, and affordable food for everyone.
In Japan, unique challenges are present. A declining population leaves rural areas underpopulated, threatening agricultural production and weakening local communities. Many farms have a labour shortage, as younger generations are drawn to urban opportunities, leaving Japan to rely heavily on food imports. Addressing these issues is critical for a stable food supply, to revitalise the countryside and to strengthen the economy. Meanwhile, Japanese produce is renowned across Asia for its exceptional quality and its global demand is growing, making it an optimal market for sustainable investment and development.
As long-standing partners of Japan, the Netherlands shares this vision for a sustainable future. The Dutch horticulture industry has already forged successful collaborations in Japan, including partnerships in Kochi and Mutsu, where Dutch-style horticultural facilities have enhanced agricultural productivity and efficiency. By offering expertise in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), the Netherlands can support Japan in enhancing sustainable horticulture production, boosting food self-sufficiency, and increasing yields of healthy, pesticide-free products.
Dutch expertise in automatised, energy-efficient, and pesticide-free cultivation creates opportunities for smart, scalable production tailored to local needs. Meanwhile, Japan is a global leader in precision, robotics, and automation. Their culture of innovation has already produced groundbreaking technologies that are shaping industries worldwide. Through shared expertise in advanced horticulture technologies, both countries can optimise resource use, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and work towards a sustainable, future-proof food system.
Together, we can scale up CEA, transitioning from mid-tech to high-tech solutions, and showcase the profitability and innovation of modern agriculture to younger generations and business leaders. The urgency to combat climate change and ensure food security has never been greater. As the second-largest agricultural exporter, the Netherlands plays a pivotal role in climate-proofing food systems. By focusing on innovations like Controlled Environment Agriculture, and through partnerships with nations like Japan, we can create a resilient, sustainable, and healthy future for all. Join us In farming the future, together.
Expo 2025 is the upcoming World Expo, held in Osaka from 13 April to 13 October 2025. For more information visit www.NLexpo2025.nl
