Dutch fruit and vegetable sector grows by 2%

In 2025, the Netherlands further strengthened its role in the international fruit and vegetable supply chain. Trade showed growth in production, imports, and exports. Consumption in the Netherlands also increased slightly. As a result, the sector remains an important link in Europe’s food supply.

Production value rises with larger harvests

In 2025, the production of Dutch fruit and vegetables represented a value of €5.0 billion. This is 2 percent higher than in 2024. Favorable weather conditions led to larger harvests. In many cases, this went hand in hand with lower grower prices.

The Netherlands plays a central role in the year-round supply of fresh fruit and vegetables. This includes products grown domestically as well as re-exports, particularly fruit, to European sales markets.

Imports reach a new record level

Imports of fresh fruit and vegetables reached a record high in 2025. Imported volumes increased by 9 percent to 8.1 billion kilos. Total import value amounted to €12.4 billion, an increase of 11 percent. More than three quarters of imports consist of fresh fruit.

Peru (€1.8 billion) and South Africa (€1.6 billion) became the leading countries of origin, ahead of Spain (€1.5 billion). The strongest import growth came from Chile (+28%), Peru (+18%), and South Africa (+17%). Avocados, grapes, and bananas were the most imported products. Lemons, kiwis, and oranges recorded the highest growth in value.

Exports and consumption increase

Exports of fruit and vegetables rose by 11 percent to 10.8 billion kilos. Export value increased by 12 percent to €17.8 billion. Germany remained the main destination, followed by Belgium and the United Kingdom. Strong growth was visible toward Spain, Poland, and Germany, particularly for tomatoes, blueberries, and grapes.

Dutch consumption of fruit and vegetables increased by 2 percent in 2025. Vegetable consumption grew by 1 percent, while fruit increased by 3 percent. Supermarkets recorded higher sales, while foodservice and catering saw a slight decline. Vegetables were on average 4 percent cheaper, while fruit was 1 percent more expensive than a year earlier.

Groentenfruithuis.nl