The relationship between Mexico and the Netherlands in the agri-food sector It has become a strategic alliance that flourishes every year in the Agrofood Expo Guanajuato, the most important event in the sector in Latin America.

In 2025, the exhibition celebrates its 30th anniversaryAnd with that, three decades of international collaboration that have contributed to the exchange of knowledge, technological innovation and sustainable development in the Mexican countryside.

To Lilian Ibarra RetanAccording to the general director of the Board for Agri-food Development of Guanajuato and of the Expo AgroAlimentaria, the participation of the Netherlands summarizes the collaborative spirit that has defined the event since its creation.

“The relationship with the Netherlands is the perfect example of our collaborative spirit for this event, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025,” express.

From its first editions, the Dutch presence It has been a constant, and has become a benchmark within the fairgrounds. Every year, the Pavilion of the Netherlands It brings together leading companies in agricultural technology, logistics, horticulture and clean energy, offering solutions that transform Mexican agri-food production.

“International collaboration is one of our fundamental pillars. Having pavilions like the one from the Netherlands and hosting more than 52 delegations from around the world is what makes us the most important agribusiness platform in Latin America. We aspire to be the premier meeting point, where alliances are forged that drive sustainable and responsible development.”He stressed Ibarra Retana.

An agricultural model that inspires the world

The relevance of the Netherlands In the agri-food sector, this is reflected not only in its international presence but also in its technological and productive leadership. Despite being one of the smallest countries in the European Union, the Netherlands They are the world's second largest agricultural exporter by value, second only to the United States.

The Netherlands produces a wide variety of food, from eggs, beef, tomatoes, and peppers to flowers and dairy products. In 2024, Dutch agricultural exports reached a higher value. $140 billionThis figure places the country at the top of global agro-industrial innovation.

The Dutch agricultural model is characterized by its intensive greenhouse production and the use of advanced technology that maximizes efficiency in every square meter cultivated. In a territory with a temperate climate and limited space, the Netherlands has transformed climate control technology, water recycling, and LED lighting low power consumption in key tools to achieve high performance.

Their approach to innovation has been replicated by countries around the world. United States, Canada, Mexico And North African nations have begun developing large-scale Dutch-style greenhouses in the hope of replicating the same productivity results.

Innovation with sustainability

The success of Dutch agriculture lies in its commitment to sustainability. Over the past 20 years, the country's greenhouses have reduced their water consumption. up to 90%, an achievement made possible by the integration of closed irrigation systems and water reuse technologies.

It is estimated that to grow one kilogram of Dutch tomatoes Only four liters of water are used, while the global average exceeds 200 liters. This saving is achieved thanks to a drainage system that collects the condensed water from the plants, transports it through pipes, disinfects it, and reuses it in the crops.

Innovation also extends to energy efficiency and emissions reductionSmart greenhouses integrate humidity, temperature, and light sensors that automatically adjust environmental conditions to maximize production and reduce electricity consumption.

A technological and commercial bridge with Mexico

At Agrofood Expo GuanajuatoDutch companies find a strategic opportunity to share their expertise and expand their presence in Latin America. Through their participation in the event, they promote cooperative projects with Mexican producers, universities, research centers, and government authorities.

The exchange focuses on topics such as precision agriculture, water efficiency, the development of automated greenhouses, and the sustainable management of natural resources.

“The Netherlands has taught us that technology not only improves yields, but can also be a powerful tool to protect the environment and strengthen food security.”He said Ibarra Retana.

The director of the Agri-Food Expo He emphasized that this relationship has been crucial in positioning Mexico as a country capable of integrating knowledge, innovation, and internationally competitive agricultural production.

Three decades after its founding, the Guanajuato Agri-Food Expo It continues to be the meeting point between Mexican agricultural tradition and global technological innovation, with the Netherlands as a key ally in building a smarter, more efficient and sustainable agricultural future.