To enter the Dutch market, exporters need to meet EU food safety and labelling rules, and buyer demands for certification and traceability. Specialised importers and stockholding wholesalers are usually the best first buyers. New suppliers should compete through providing consistent quality, reliable delivery and a distinctive origin, product or service, rather than in terms of price alone.

Food safety comes first. Suppliers must control pesticide residues and be able to trace a product back to the farmer if a recall occurs.

Nelido Oliveira, CEO at Agrico Trading

Consistency is most important: do what you promise. Buyers need stable quality, reliable delivery, clear communication and strong food safety.

Winand Kuiper, Purchasing Manager at Yme Kuiper B.V.

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The Netherlands is one of the world’s largest import and distribution hubs for dried fruit and nuts. It offers access to Dutch consumers and wider European markets. This study examines market size, trade flows, buyer requirements and key trends. It identifies groundnuts, cashews, dried grapes, dates, walnuts and desiccated coconuts as the strongest opportunities for exporters from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

The healthy image of nuts continues to support demand, but consumers buy less when prices become too high. Almonds and cashews are also finding uses beyond traditional snacking.

Nelido Oliveira, CEO at Agrico Trading

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The Netherlands is a major gateway for dried fruit and nuts. It connects exporters with Dutch buyers and wider European markets. The strongest opportunities are in groundnuts, cashews, dried grapes, dates, walnuts and desiccated coconut. Success requires safe, certified and traceable products, reliable delivery and a clear advantage over established suppliers.

There are good opportunities for tourism businesses in low- and middle-income countries that want to reach the Dutch outbound travel market. It is important to understand Dutch travellers, where they travel, what motivates them and which tourism products have the most potential. Local tour operators should be well prepared for the market. They should also have a good understanding of sustainability, pricing, online presence and product development.

Dutch travellers are experienced, well informed and independent. They still book through tour operators for security, comfort and access to well organised trips, but they want free time, authentic experiences, nature, culture and opportunities to discover something new.

Jorieke Graven

Jorieke Graven, Impact Coordinator at Sawadee

Pricing is very important, especially today when inflation is growing. But be always clear about prices, terms of communication, and product quality to avoid misunderstandings. When someone pays, they must know exactly what they are paying for and what they will get, so customer care is very, very important!

Jasna Šestak

Jasna Šestak, Tour Guide at With Locals

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The Netherlands is an important European outbound tourism market. Dutch travellers have a high interest in visiting low- and middle-income destinations. They speak very good English and are keen on good value, sustainable tourism products. Adventure, cycling, sun and beach, culture, nature, city breaks and round trips are their most favoured tourism products. Dutch nationals of all ages travel, but their needs and budgets vary. Their choice of destination may be affected by climate issues, safety and other risk factors.

Dutch travellers choose destinations that offer authentic, high-quality experiences, with strong nature, outdoor activities, local connections, flexibility and a clear sense that the trip is genuinely responsible. Their decision is also shaped by safety, destination reputation, value for money and clear explanations of why slower travel or longer stays make the experience better.

Elise Gelderloos

Elise Gelderloos, Product Manager and Business Analyst at Better Places

Dutch travellers increasingly seek active, authentic experiences rather than luxury. They want to explore beyond the main tourist routes, stay in small-scale accommodation and travel at their own pace. Interest in holidays that create a positive social impact is also growing. For local tour operators, the biggest opportunity is to offer original experiences, communicate clearly and build trusted partnerships with Dutch buyers.

Kim Nooyens

Kim Nooyens, Chair of the VVKR (Association of Small Scale Travel Organisations)

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