'No protectionism on German carrot market'

"The German carrot market is not as protectionist as many growers think," says Pieter Gabriëls, director of Bejo Zaden Germany. According to him, there are also other markets with opportunities. Are there therefore still opportunities for the carrot market in Germany?

"The focus on regional food is a trend that has been created by marketing. This is supported by consumer demand," said Gabriëls at the Peen Theme Day in Emmeloord. "We see that the demand for regional products, especially in the field of vegetables, is increasing strongly."

Regionality
Gabriëls sees an opportunity for the carrot market, with regard to the demand for regional products. "What is regional? That is not legally defined. This has to do with the transport kilometers and a trusted product." The Dutch carrot market can meet both of these factors, which is why there are still opportunities for the carrot market.

The director of Bejo Zaden also mentions that new markets for carrots are still emerging, he sees carrots in particular as a growth market. However, that is not easy for many arable farmers. "It's more of a horticultural crop," says Gabriels. Another market that is under development is the market for dyes from carrots. Gabriëls believes that the B carrot (storage carrot) segment offers few growth opportunities. 

Organic offer
In addition, organic carrots also have more opportunities on the German market. "The degree of self-sufficiency of organic carrots in Germany is lower than that of conventional carrots. This has to do with the availability of good organic soil," says Gabriëls. "As a result, the demand for organic carrots from the Netherlands will continue to exist for a while."

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Certification
Ronald Gielleit, co-founder of Top Fresh Handel, believes that more thought should be given to certification. He sees that the most required certificate (the GlobalG.AP) is often missing from Dutch growers. "This is the most important certification, as it is requested by traders and supermarkets." He considers certificates such as the Milieukeur to be of minor importance.

Gielleit also mentioned that it is desirable to make a quotation for biopene during the ex-land period. "That's when most of the trading takes place." LNCN chairman Mark Brantjes immediately responded to this opinion and accepted the request.

Anne-Jan Doorn

Anne Jan Doorn is an arable expert at Boerenbusiness. He writes about the various arable farming markets and also focuses on the land and energy market.

aj.doorn@boerenbusiness. Nl

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