Ethiopie: from ‘Land of Origins’ to a future hub for horticulture?
Last week, a horticultural trade mission to Ethiopia took place, organized by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ethiopia.
Fifteen Dutch companies joined, covering the full value chain, from production and post-harvest technology to finance, trade and certification. On behalf of Dutch Greenhouse Delta, Frederik Vossenaar led the mission.
High-level exchanges with stakeholders such as State Minister of Agriculture H.E. Ms Sofia Kassa, Tewedros Zewdie, Mandefro Nigussie and Zinabu Yirga confirmed the country’s ambition to further develop its horticulture sector.
At HortiFlora Expo, with a leading role in the opening ceremony for Christine Pirenne, the sector’s growth was clearly visible. Dutch expertise remains strong in floriculture, while fruit and vegetable production is rapidly gaining ground.
During field visits, the delegation visited Zuquala Horti, Ethio Vegfru (led by Abebe Tsegaye), Roshanara Flower Farm, AQ Roses, Modjo Cool Port, a smallholder avocado project, Rijk Zwaan demonstration site and Joytech, reflecting a sector in transition.
Flower farms, many Dutch-led, have built a strong position over the past 20 years, with rose exports to the Netherlands reaching ~€220 million. At the same time, challenges around plant health, phytosanitary requirements and market expectations are increasing.
Ethiopia positions itself as the “Land of Origins.”
Can it also become a future-hub for horticulture?
As Frederik concluded: emerging markets like Ethiopia require long-term commitment and partnership-driven approaches. Together with partners, we look forward to further exploring opportunities for public-private collaboration.
Many thanks to Alwin Quispel, Paul Lange, Hanneke Bogaerts, and Giovanni Angiolini for organizing this mission.