GreenTech Week 2026 Strengthens International Collaboration in Controlled Environment Agriculture
During GreenTech Week 2026, the Netherlands once again welcomed the world and showcased the strength of its horticultural ecosystem. Throughout the week, international delegations from across the globe gathered to exchange knowledge, explore innovations and discuss the future of food production.
Growers, investors, policymakers, government officials and ministers came together with Dutch companies, knowledge institutes and government organisations, all eager to connect with the innovative heart of Dutch horticulture. Their visit was facilitated by the partners of the Strategic Trade Fair Programme (SBP), a public-private collaboration dedicated to strengthening international partnerships and promoting sustainable food, flower and plant production worldwide.
These delegations were invited by the partners of the Strategic Trade Fair Program, a public-private initiative that offers tailor-made programs to international guests, highlighting the Dutch approach to sustainable food, flower and plant production. The Strategic Trade Fair Programme is coordinated by AVAG and carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), the Municipality of Westland, Dutch Greenhouse Delta, GreenTech and World Horti Center, plays an important role in strengthening these international connections. By showcasing the collective expertise of the Dutch horticultural sector, the program promotes the Netherlands as a global partner in sustainable food, flower and plant production and stimulates long-term partnerships and new business opportunities. The connections made during GreenTech Week provide a strong foundation for future collaboration and sustainable horticultural development worldwide.
From Innovation to Integrated Solutions
Throughout the week, delegates participated in company visits, roundtable discussions, networking events, knowledge sessions and meetings on the GreenTech exhibition floor.
A central meeting place was the NL Lounge, where Dutch companies, knowledge institutes and government organizations presented themselves as one integrated horticultural ecosystem. Here, international visitors exchanged insights, explored opportunities for cooperation and discussed practical solutions for future-proof food production.
One of the strongest signals emerging from GreenTech Week was the growing international demand for integrated solutions rather than standalone technologies. Delegations increasingly expressed interest in approaches that combine technology, cultivation expertise, data, education and long-term partnerships.
According to Annie van de Riet, Chair of AVAG, this development reflects the global challenges many countries are facing:
“The growing international interest in Controlled Environment Agriculture is a logical response to the challenge of feeding a growing world population, finding solutions to climate change and safeguarding food security in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. We are proud of the innovations our companies have presented to help address these challenges.”
Building partnerships for the future
GreenTech Week 2026 demonstrated that meaningful progress starts with meaningful connections. New relationships were established, existing partnerships strengthened and conversations initiated that will continue long after the exhibition doors have closed.
The week confirmed the Netherlands’ position as a trusted international partner in Controlled Environment Agriculture and highlighted the value of collaboration across borders. The connections made during GreenTech Week provide a strong foundation for future partnerships and the continued development of sustainable horticulture worldwide.