Vietnam and the Netherlands are close and trusted partners in trade and investment in horticulture, which holds significant importance and potential for both countries. The Netherlands is renowned for its expertise, innovations, advanced technologies and high-quality input materials, while Vietnam has strong production potential and opportunities to further upgrade the sector.
© EKN Hanoi
Shared commitment to sustainability
"Both countries share a commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture, using land and water resources more efficiently, and promoting circular agricultural practices," said Mr. Daniel Stork - Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ho Chi Minh City. Mr. Stork made these remarks at the opening ceremony of the seventh International Exhibition & Conference for Horticultural and Floricultural Production and Processing Technology in Vietnam - HortEx Vietnam 2025, held at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City from March 12 to 14.
"And this year we continued our strong presence in HortEx Vietnam 2025, with 21 Dutch companies. These are strong testaments to the commitment that the Netherlands has been and continues being a co-creating partner for Vietnam with our knowledge, expertise, technologies and products, for a safe and more sustainable horticulture sector in Vietnam," Mr. Daniel Stork stated.
The Netherlands Pavilion highlighting eco-friendly horticulture
Beyond advancements in seed and processing technology, this year's HortEx Vietnam featured a stronger Dutch presence, with companies showcasing cutting-edge innovations in biological crop protection (biocontrol), eco-friendly growing substrates, and efficient supply chain logistics. Along with other Dutch companies at the expo, the Netherlands Pavilion at HortEx 2025 (Booth B3) was built using eco-friendly, locally sourced materials like bamboo, recycled wood, and fabric - showcasing the Netherlands' commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Empowering youth for a sustainable food future
The Netherlands Pavilion at HortEx Vietnam 2025 also hosted the Empower Youth 4Food Campaign – Vietnam Chapter. Launched in Vietnam in March 2024, it aims to improve the reputation of agricultural education and agricultural employment among young people in Vietnam, as well as inspire the young generation in Vietnam to become more involved and shape a future for food production based on principles of innovation and sustainability. The two-year campaign also hopes to create career opportunities by connecting the business sector with talented Vietnamese students and young professionals through guest lectures, company visits, job postings, and internships.
© EKN Hanoi
Recognizing the young generation as future leaders in horticulture, EY4F also hosted a seminar during HortEx Vietnam 2025 titled "Seeds of Change: Engaging and Empowering Youth in Vietnam's Horticulture" to inspire and equip young professionals with the necessary tools to drive a resilient agricultural and food-secure future.
Advancing Integrated Pest Management for sustainable horticulture
Besides exhibition activities, HortEx Vietnam 2025 also hosted seminars specialized in various topics providing valuable insights into the industry, including the seminar "Advancing Integrated Pest Management in Vietnam's Horticulture for a Sustainable Future", which attracted more than 120 participants.
At the seminar, representatives from the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association (VinaFruit) and Fresh Studio presented the current situation and challenges for agricultural products and food exports to the EU and applications of IPM in Vietnam to ensure export standards.
At its core, IPM is about shifting perspectives and adopting a proactive approach to pest control. It emphasizes careful observation, such as monitoring and scouting for pests, to understand what is happening in the field. These small, simple actions can lead to significant impacts by enabling timely, targeted interventions that protect crops without over-relying on chemicals. IPM demonstrates that sustainable farming begins with a mindset change and that even the smallest efforts can make a meaningful difference in achieving healthier, more resilient ecosystems. This aligns with the Netherlands' strong commitment to sustainable and climate-smart agricultural development in Vietnam, as reflected in the Strategic Partnership Arrangement between the two countries.
HortEx Vietnam 2025: 400 brands from 30 countries
Taking place from March 12 to 14, HortEx Vietnam 2025 brought together nearly 400 brands from 30 countries, offering participating businesses the opportunity to meet and engage directly with potential customers, enhance their promotion and export activities.
Source: Agroberichten Buitenland