Agricultural exports set new record

In 2018, the Netherlands exported a record amount of €90,3 billion worth of agricultural goods. This makes our country the largest agricultural exporter in the world after the United States.

Compared to the previous export record (which dates from 2017) agricultural exports show an increase of 0,2%, as calculated by Statistics Netherlands and Wageningen Economic Research. This means that exports are leveling off after years of growth. Almost 75% of the export value is Dutch-made. The agricultural sector accounts for 18,2% of total Dutch goods exports.

Dairy and meat in top 3
The floriculture sector represents (€9,2 billion) the highest value in agricultural exports. The export value of flowers and plants increased by 3%. Dairy and egg exports are in second place, with a combined value of €2 billion.

Within dairy exports, sales of baby milk powders to China increased strongly; it is even it largest export product that the Netherlands sells in China. The export value of meat (€8,1 billion) completes the stage. 

Neighboring countries important 
Our neighboring countries are the main destinations for agricultural exports. The export value to Germany amounts to €22,8 billion; this is 25% of the total export value. Belgium, the United Kingdom and France follow in place 2, 3 and 4.  

The import of agricultural goods for 2018 is estimated at €61,4 billion. Compared to 2017, this is an increase of 0,5%. This brings the agricultural trade surplus to €28,8 billion. 

Wouter Job

Wouter Baan is editor-in-chief of Boerenbusiness. He also focuses on dairy, pig and meat markets. He also follows (business) developments within agribusiness and interviews CEOs and policymakers.

w.baan@boerenbusiness. Nl

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