Welcome

to the website of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. Here you can find information about subjects such as agriculture, livestock, animal welfare, horticulture, outdoor recreation, biotechnology, food and water quality.

The Netherlands is one of the smallest and most densely populated countries in the world. Hence the pressure on the rural area is considerable. People have to live, work and relax there. Besides, space is needed for agricultural production and transport, while valuable nature areas and unique landscapes must be conserved for future generations. A balance must continually be struck between the various uses of the rural area. The motto of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality therefore is Food production and rural areas of international standing.

News

• Bluetongue
  A suspected outbreak of the animal disease bluetongue was confirmed on a holding in Kerkrade on Thursday 17 August. There is now a ban on all exports out of the Netherlands of live ruminants (including cattle, sheep and goats) and live products of these animals (sperm, ova and embryos). More information:
  • Bluetongue

• Avian influenza
  Outbreaks of avian infuenza ('bird flu') in Asia and certain European countries have triggered a series of measures by the Netherlands' Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality.
  • Click here to learn more

• 2007 Policy of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality