On 8th November Foodstuffs North Island Ltd welcomed 20 innovative Dutch companies from horticultural and agricultural sectors, on a Trade Mission from the Netherlands to New Zealand.
The trade delegation was headed by Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs, Henk Kamp during the state visit by Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima.
New Zealand and the Netherlands are like minded international partners and business cooperation is very successful. We share a number of similar values including freedom, democracy and human rights. We also face similar challenges such as urbanisation and sustainability.
The strong ties between the countries are greatly attributed to the fact that today there is a large community of around 150,000 Kiwis with Dutch roots living in New Zealand.
This mission provides great opportunities for the businesses involved as they engage in exploring New Zealand innovation while sharing ideas and building relationships. The companies can gain international knowledge and explore finding solutions for New Zealand’s and the Netherlands’ economic, social and environmental challenges.
Vaughan Grant, General Manager Supply Chain, Foodstuffs North Island says the Netherlands has an excellent relationship with New Zealand and Foodstuffs was pleased to host the delegation and strengthen the partnership.
Arthur Huijser, Economic and Public Diplomacy Officer at the Embassy of the Netherlands, says he is thrilled the delegation will be exposed to New Zealand’s most promising sectors, he sees this is an opportunity to further strengthen relationships and meet future business partners.
“This mission is a collaborative approach to make connections and share expertise. We feel privileged to gain insights into the Foodstuffs Co-operative and gain a better understanding of the New Zealand grocery market,” says Huijser.
