Dutch horticulture mission to Japan launched for Expo 2025 Osaka

From 30 August to 6 September 2025, a high-level Dutch horticulture mission will travel to Japan for Expo 2025 Osaka, bringing together government, industry, and knowledge partners to strengthen collaboration in Japan’s food production. The program is jointly organized by Dutch Greenhouse Delta, the Municipality of Westland, and the Netherlands Embassy in Japan.

At the heart of the mission is Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), farming in controlled environment such as greenhouses. This approach enables year-round production of safe, fresh fruit, vegetables, and flowers while using less resources such as energy and water. In Japan, CEA can contribute to reducing dependence on fresh food imports, revitalizing rural areas by creating more appealing jobs, and building a resilient, future-proof food system that strengthens the economy.

CEA Symposium: the Netherlands’ flagship horti event
One of the highlights of the week will be the exclusive CEA Symposium, where the Dutch–Japanese CEA network comes together to learn, exchange, and form new partnerships. The program will feature inspiring keynotes by former NASA scientist Raymond Wheeler, Vice-Minister for Agriculture Marten van den Berg of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, and Westland Mayor Bouke Arends, the world’s most concentrated hub for greenhouse horticulture. Westland Municipality will also renew its collaboration with Kochi Prefecture. Topics such as decarbonization, the creation of agri valleys, and advances in AI and robotics will also be addressed in panel discussions with Japanese and Dutch experts.

A taste of horticulture in Osaka
On the evening before the CEA Symposium, an exclusive group of guests will be invited to the Exclusive Walking Dinner at Expo 2025 Osaka, created by Dutch Master Chef Hidde de Brabander, born and raised in Westland. Infused with innovation, health, and joy, the menu draws on the mindset and creativity that define Dutch horticulture, offering guests a taste of the Netherlands’ open and collaborative spirit.

Exploring Japan’s horticultural landscape
The rest of the week will take the Dutch delegation across Japan’s horticultural sector, with many company visits and knowledge exchange events. The program includes a panel discussion at the Second JPFA International Symposium on Plant Factory, a network reception hosted by the Japan Greenhouse Horticulture Association, and the Norinchukin Bank Symposium on finance and Japanese horticulture. The group will also visit innovative greenhouses and plant factories in Ibaraki, Mie, Aichi and Shizuoka prefectures to explore the current state of horticulture in Japan and identify opportunities for Dutch–Japanese collaboration.

Global alliance of horticulture regions
As part of the week’s side program, leaders from horticulture regions worldwide will be welcomed by the Municipality of Westland at Expo 2025 Osaka. As founding members of the soon-to-be-launched Global Alliance of Horticulture Regions, they will receive a symbolic artwork by Westland artist Carly Zegers. The sculpture, called Glass of Growth, is made from recycled greenhouse glass and embodies growth, cooperation, and the belief that all regions can achieve more by working together.

Cultivating the future on common ground
Through collaboration in CEA, the Netherlands and Japan can boost production, inspire new generations, and build secure, future-proof food systems. This mission is not just about technology—it’s about cultivating partnerships that nourish, enrich, and connect. The Dutch delegation looks forward to another inspiring week in Japan. With 425 years of diplomatic friendship, we share a remarkable Common Ground to cultivate the fruits of our partnership.

For more information:
Dutch Greenhouse Delta
[email protected]
www.dutchgreenhousedelta.com