News agricultural trade
The Netherlands is a major buyer of Flemish products
In 2019, Flanders exported more agricultural and food products than it imported, resulting in a trade surplus of €7,1 billion. The arable farming and dairy product groups in particular give a significant boost to the Flemish agro trade.
In 2019, €32,1 billion worth of products were imported into Flanders, while around €39,2 billion was exported. It trade surplus thus amounts to €7,1 billion. The agricultural and food industry has a share of 13% in total Flemish exports. Compared to 2018, exports have increased by 2% and the surplus has grown by 11%. Animal products (up €2,4 billion) and agro-industrial products (up €1,9 billion) in particular contribute to the Flemish trade surplus.
Arable farming important for Flemish trade
If we look at the various product groups, arable products are pre-eminently the most important group for the Flemish agro trade. Exports account for €14,6 billion and imports for €13,3 billion. There are 2 product types that record an import value of more than €2 billion: the derived products (such as tobacco products and cocoa) and the other crops (including coffee). This is followed by grain products (such as wheat, barley and maize) and oilseeds (rapeseed and soya). The strongest growth occurred in potatoes: +57% compared to 2016.
Animal products are also important for Flemish exports. This product group recorded a trade surplus of €2019 billion in 2,4. Exports have increased (compared to 2018) to €7,5 billion, which is 14% higher than in 2016. In addition, the import value of animal products has increased by approximately 3% in 12 years to €5,1 billion. Dairy products with an import value of €2,5 billion now make up almost half of the total imports of animal products.
Netherlands important trading country
Since Flanders is centrally located within the European Union, it is not surprising that the largest trading partners are the neighboring countries. About 81% of the total export of agricultural products goes to other countries within the European Union. About 72% of all imported products come from other countries in the European Union. France is the main sales market, with a share of 19,3%. This is followed by the Netherlands (18,6%) and Germany (14,2%).
Outside the European Union, the United States (2,4%) and China (1,6%) are the most important trading partners. It is striking that the trade surplus with the European Union is particularly large (€8,7 billion), while a trade deficit of €1,6 billion is visible with countries outside Europe.
The entire report can be viewed here.
Kimberly Baker
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