Less dependency requires control of the supply chain

Geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions are increasing pressure on international supply chains. For the Dutch food industry, that presents a tangible risk. Many producers depend on raw materials, ingredients, and materials sourced abroad. New research by RaboResearch shows that a growing number of Dutch companies want to reduce their strategic dependencies. Supply chain transparency and circularity are closely linked to that effort.

Supply chain transparency helps identify vulnerabilities

Around 20 percent of Dutch companies are working to reduce strategic dependency on countries within and/or outside the EU. Among companies with fifty or more employees, that rises to approximately 60 percent. This includes limiting imports or relocating certain activities to the Netherlands.

The researchers find a strong positive correlation between supply chain transparency and the reduction of strategic dependencies. Companies with greater insight into their supply chains are more likely to work on reducing vulnerabilities. Without that insight, it is difficult to determine where risks are located.

Circularity reduces reliance on raw materials

Circularity also shows a positive correlation with reducing strategic dependencies. Circular companies are less dependent on raw materials and supplies from abroad.

At the same time, the broader transition toward a sustainable and inclusive economy is stagnating. The average NEx-T score stands at 5.4 in 2025, compared to 5.5 a year earlier. In the area of circularity, there is a decline compared to 2024.

Smaller companies score lower on circularity

Small enterprises score an average of 5.3 on the NEx-T. Large companies reach 6.6. The sharpest decline in circularity is seen among companies with 2 to 9 employees, where the score drops by 7 percent compared to last year.

In 2025, industry scores relatively high on circular economy and transparent supply chains. The food industry is part of that sector.

Rabobank.nl