The first combined edition of Grow Expo and Flora Expo took place in Astana – an important moment for the region’s green development ambitions, and it was a great success. Bigger, more dynamic, and with broader international reach than previous editions, the fair marked a new chapter in green development partnerships across Central Asia and connecting global expertise with local opportunity.
The Netherlands was prominently represented at the expo, with over 40 companies participating along with delegations from LVVN and Groenpact NL. As co-organisers, Dutch Greenhouse Delta played a key role in creating an informative and engaging booth for local investors, growers, policymakers, and stakeholders – a platform for dialogue, inspiration, and long-term cooperation.
Fostering dialogue and innovation
Throughout the event, participants engaged in meaningful conversations with local growers, investors, policymakers, and knowledge institutions. These interactions focused on shared challenges and opportunities in the transition from traditional agriculture to smarter, more sustainable growing systems. Parallel working group sessions offered the chance to dive deeper into pressing global themes such as resource efficiency, biodiversity, and climate-resilient production methods.
Partnerships for Green Education
A major highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Groenpact and NASEC (National Agrarian Science and Educational Center), laying the groundwork for future collaboration in green education and capacity building. This agreement will help connect the dots between education, applied research, and innovation.
Kazakhstan is steadily positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable agriculture. Our Dutch delegation sees great potential and is proud to be part of this journey. We reflect on this fair not just as a business event, but as a shared platform for learning and cooperation.
Looking ahead
As we reflect on our participation, one message resonates clearly: education and knowledge exchange are the foundation of sustainable development. By fostering strong links between the public and private sectors, we can turn innovation into implementation — and ideas into action.
We look back at this event as a true success — and forward to building on the momentum it has created.
