Dutch government finalizes food security crisis plan

Geopolitical tensions and climate change are increasing the risk of disruptions to the food supply chain. This could put food security in the Netherlands and the European Union at risk. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN) is therefore working on a national crisis plan. The ministry is also focusing on digital resilience and modern oversight.

Crisis plan and critical infrastructure

The government will finalize the National Food Security Crisis Plan in early 2027. The Strategic Food Security Agenda is expected around the summer. The agenda aims to build a more resilient food supply.

A total of €9.7 million is available for initiatives under the “Earning Capacity” heading. Part of this funding is intended for measures concerning critical infrastructure. The budget specifically references the Cybersecurity Act and the Critical Entities Resilience Act. These laws stem from the NIS2 and CER directives. They are also intended to strengthen the food industry’s digital and physical resilience.

Agreements on organic sales

The government is accelerating the action plan for organic production and consumption. By April 1, 2027, it intends to reach firm agreements with processors and supermarkets. The aim is to increase sales of organic products.

LVVN is also allocating €7.4 million to integrated food policy. Of this amount, €6.3 million will go toward making the food supply more sustainable and developing policies on residual streams. Efforts will also focus on reducing food waste and increasing transparency throughout the chain. LVVN also aims to promote healthy and sustainable food consumption.

Innovation and modern oversight

The Agrifood Innovation Agenda focuses on Ag Tech, food innovations, resilient crop production, and greenhouse horticulture. A total of €8.8 million is available for the Digitalization Action Program. The funding supports a broad program that includes food production. The program includes an AI ecosystem and agreements on data sharing.

The NVWA plans to take a more proactive and preventive approach. The regulator intends to focus oversight more sharply on risks and the entire supply chain. The NVWA also plans to use artificial intelligence. The agency is investing in camera surveillance, sensor technology, drones, and apps. It also plans to make greater use of data.

Rijksoverheid.nl