Dutch " Water Mission" To Mexico Scheduled

The Netherlands Embassy in Mexico and The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) have announced a “water mission” to Mexico, 5 to 9 September 2022.

The focus of the mission is to explore opportunities for Dutch companies to offer specialised technology and solutions for both urban challenges and agri-business issues in the Mexican markets. Of particular interest are the so-called “hotspots” of Sinaloa and Guanajuato agri-markets.

A 2021 market study revealed that water issues prevail in the production of most agricultural products and food producing regions in Mexico. Major agricultural production regions rely on basins and aquifers that are affected by water deficits, pollution and salinity. Soil degradation is a common issue.

Significant sector growth is forecasted in the upcoming years in terms of production and value, but estimates also predict an increase greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, and water scarcity.

The study also indicated that many Mexican producers rely on chemical inputs and obsolete irrigation systems and, at the same time lack access to adequate wastewater treatment and more modern techniques for water re-use and catchment. Producers are aware of these factors and are receptive to adoption of new technologies.

The delegation, to be led by Dutch Water Envoy Henk Ovink, will open opportunities for companies from the Netherlands that specialize in water consultancy, research, water management, on-farm water technologies, irrigation, water treatment and remediation, crop-specific or livestock farming-related water issues, soil restoration and regeneration.

The agri-track will consist of an interesting programme in Mexico-City, Sinaloa and Guanajuato, which and will offer Dutch participants:

• An insight into the most important water issues and stakeholders in the Mexican agricultural sector, in particular in Sinaloa and Guanajuato
• On-site visits to Mexican farms and agri-food businesses
• The possibility to pitch their offer to relevant Mexican parties
• Network events to meet potential leads