The Netherlands is a global leader in the seed sector, becoming in 2023 the world’s top exporter of plant reproductive materials, with exports exceeding €5 billion. A remarkable cluster of breeding companies is located in Seed Valley in the northwest of the Netherlands. From this region — home to both family-owned companies and global firms — companies generate more than 85% of their turnover internationally, and it is estimated that nearly half of the vegetable seeds used worldwide originate here.

 ENZA CEO, Mr. Jaap Mazereeuw

The Dutch seed sector includes more than 200 breeding companies and over 7,000 propagators, supported by a strong innovation ecosystem connecting the private sector, government and research institutions through the Dutch “Diamond approach.” Dutch companies have long invested in plant breeding and advanced genetics, helping agriculture respond to some of the most pressing challenges of our time — including water scarcity, climate variability, soil health and the need for more efficient use of natural resources.

Deputy ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Chile, Mr. René Borghouts

Chile also plays a key role in the global seed industry as the leading exporter in the Southern Hemisphere and the 4th largest seed producer in the world. Its counter-season production allows seeds to be multiplied during the Northern Hemisphere winter, helping accelerate plant breeding cycles and meet global demand.

By combining Dutch expertise in plant breeding with Chile’s unique climate and production conditions, both countries contribute to strengthening agricultural innovation and global food supply security — because high-quality seeds are the foundation of productive and resilient agriculture, enabling farmers to produce more with fewer resources.