In September 2025 the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) ran a study tour to the Netherlands to explore the cutting edge of agricultural innovation here. The trip aimed to identify new technologies and strategies for tackling food security, supply and nutrition challenges in APO member economies.
Global population growth, climate change and dwindling resources are putting pressure on farmers to produce sustainably and efficiently. By exploring pioneering Dutch solutions, the study tour helps APO members adapt to evolving demands while learning ways to mitigate risks and improve resilience.
Over the five-day itinerary, delegates from 15 Asian countries met leading Dutch experts, visited world-class research institutes and toured demonstration centres, all focused on breakthrough agricultural technologies.
- Precision Farming: participants learned from Professor Corné Kocks at Aeres University and toured the Farm of the Future in Lelystad, where digital planning, smart sensors and agro-ecological trials are shaping tomorrow’s crop production.
- Greenhouse Innovations: at Wageningen University, Priva and World Horti Center, the group experienced state-of-the-art greenhouse techniques, integrated climate control, demo facilities and education platforms playing a key part in moving horticulture forward.
- AI and Robotics: various host organizations showcased the use of artificial intelligence, robotics, sensor networks and computer vision for smarter, more responsive food production and supply chains. Lely demonstrated the solutions it is developing for various areas of the dairy sector.
Highlights of the tour included networking at Netherlands Water Partnership and collaborative sessions at FoodX in Ede, focusing on the water-food nexus and supply chain reliability.
A major revelation for participants was the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and technology development. Public-private partnerships and collaboration between the private sector, academia and government are essential for achieving real progress.
Insights from this study tour will enable member economies to design and adopt food security strategies that are sustainable, digitally empowered and ready for tomorrow’s challenges. Practical learnings – from soil sensors and drone-based farming to data modelling and blockchain tracking – will be shared in upcoming workshops, informing decision-makers and agricultural industry leaders throughout the APO network.
This mission marks the start of enduring innovation partnerships across Asia and beyond.
For more information, please contact Jos Leeters, Lisanne Oskam and René Braakman
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