COUNTRY PROFILE
Discover more about the Dutch market including overviews about the retail, foodservice, and food-processing sectors. Events, resources, and more are linked throughout the profile.
18 Million
in 2024, the Dutch population is expected to total 18 million
#1
In 2024, the Netherlands was the largest U.S. processed food export market in Europe
$1.3 Billion
In 2024, Dutch processed food imports from the U.S. reached just over US$1.3 billion
USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, FAS, Office of Agricultural Affairs or “OAA,” located in The Hague, hereinafter referred to as “FAS Post The Hague” reports the Netherlands is the largest importing country within the European Union (EU) and the third largest exporter of agricultural products in the world, after the U.S. and Brazil and before Germany. These exports include agricultural products produced in the Netherlands and imported products that are re-exported, often after sorting, repacking, or further processing.
In 2024, the Netherlands remains the largest U.S. processed food export market in Europe and the seventh largest overall, totaling just over US$1.3 billion, growth of 7% and an all-time record high.
Top processed U.S. food products exported to the Netherlands in 2024 included:
$29.2 Billion
The value of the retail packaged food market in the Netherlands reached US$29.2 billion in 2024
60%
The largest two Dutch food retailers control nearly 60% of the sector
$33.5 Billion
By 2029, the Dutch retail packaged food market is expected to reach nearly US$33.5 billion
Euromonitor reports that the packaged food retail sales value reached US$29.2 billion in 2024. They also predict growth of 12.1% by 2029, amounting to nearly US$33.5 billion.
FAS Post The Hague reports that turnover of the Dutch retail sector were valued at US$54 billion in 2023. The Dutch food retail is relatively consolidated, with the two largest food retailers Albert Heijn and Jumbo controlling almost 60% of the market. Price discount stores, including Aldi, Lidl, and Deka, have a combined market share of almost 20%.
FAS Post The Hague reports that U.S. products present in the market that have good sales potential include nuts and dried fruits, fresh and processed produce, non-alcoholic beverages, and fruits containing high levels of antioxidants. Top consumer-oriented products from the U.S. include food preparations, beef, almonds, and distilled spirits.
$16.4 Billion
The value of the Dutch foodservice industry was US$16.4 billion in 2023
Competition in the foodservice sector intensified in 2023, especially with food retailers increasing their focus on meal delivery services and convenience store formats. Grocery retailers offering ready meals, meal kits, and delivery services, became more attractive alternatives to traditional foodservice options, especially during times of high inflation when consumers were more cautious with their spending.
FAS Post The Hague reported that the 2023 turnover in the Dutch hotel, restaurant, and institutional (HRI) foodservice industry was valued at US$16.4 billion, up 9%. Sales in all segments saw an increase, but restaurants and cafés saw sales go up the most, profiting from the trading down trend among consumers. Operators faced significant cost increases, and many were forced to pass these rising costs onto consumers, while also focused on minimizing waste and adjusting menus to manage expenses. Competition intensified in 2023, especially with food retailers increasing their focus on meal delivery services and convenience store formats.
FAS Post The Hague reports that U.S. products present in the market which have good sales potential include nuts: almonds, peanuts, pistachios, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans; seafood: salmon cod, halibut, scallops, lobster; fresh fruit and vegetables: sweet potatoes, cranberries; sauces and condiments; snack foods; California wines, craft beer; distilled spirits.
$99 Billion
The Dutch food processing industry was valued at US$99 billion in 2022
8,500
There are nearly 8,500 food processing companies in the Netherlands
4%
Food manufacturing comprised 4% of the Dutch GDP in 2022
FAS Post The Hague reports that the turnover of the Dutch food processing industry in 2022 was valued at US$99 billion. There are almost 8,500 food processing companies active in the Netherlands and together they account for over 150,000 jobs. The industry is largely dependent on imported ingredients. The majority of its finished goods, however, are sold in foreign markets.
The Dutch food processing industry is mature, well organized, has a long tradition, and has access to nearly all food ingredients. Dairy, meat, and animal feed account for almost half of its turnover. Fresh produce, bakery, beverages, and oils and fats each have a share of approximately 7%. The share of other foodstuffs is estimated at approximately 20% and includes confectionary, tea and coffee, ready-made meals, and spices and herbs.
FAS Post The Hague reports that food ingredients present in the market which have good sales potential in this sector include food ingredients, alcoholic beverages, seafood, and nuts.
