Export restric­tions increase pressure on foodsector

Export restrictions on raw materials are rising rapidly worldwide. Countries are increasingly keeping raw materials within their own borders to protect domestic industries or generate additional revenue. For the Dutch food industry, this could affect prices, availability and supply security throughout the chain.

The measures are not only impacting agriculture, but are also affecting the broader food supply chain. From fertilizers and machine parts to energy and logistics, many processes within the food industry depend on imported raw materials. When countries restrict exports, costs can rise and delivery times may increase. For an open economy like the Netherlands, this creates additional vulnerability.

More restrictions on raw materials

An increasing number of countries are introducing measures such as export tariffs, quotas and export bans. Since 2009, the number of these measures has grown significantly. The increase has accelerated particularly in recent years.

China, Russia and Vietnam play a major role in this development. These countries are restricting exports of raw materials that are essential for production processes worldwide. This is highly relevant for the Netherlands, as many sectors rely heavily on international trade and imported raw materials.

Impact across the supply chain

Much of agricultural and food production depends on raw materials sourced from abroad. This includes minerals for fertilizers, metals for machinery and installations, and energy for processing and logistics. As export restrictions increase, prices may rise and raw materials could become scarcer. Delays throughout the supply chain may also occur.

According to the report, raw materials such as phosphate and potassium could become more expensive or less available. In addition, components containing metals or rare materials may become harder to source. Investments in electrification and precision agriculture could also become more costly as a result.

Pressure on international trade

An important point raised in the report is that countries frequently follow each other’s measures. When one country restricts exports, others sometimes respond with similar actions. This could further increase pressure on the global market. As a result, uncertainty within supply chains is growing for businesses.

The OECD therefore stresses the importance of international cooperation to limit trade disruptions. For the Netherlands, access to international markets and raw materials remains essential, particularly for sectors that are highly dependent on imports and exports.

Agroberichtenbuitenland.nl