Collaboration takes shape in Toulouse

In early October, Toulouse became the stage for closer cooperation between the Netherlands and France. During the Economic Mission Agrotech, companies, researchers and government representatives explored how technology and agriculture can strengthen each other. Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima joined the delegation and attended several programme highlights. Their presence not only added prestige to the mission but also underlined the shared commitment to innovation in food production. From robotics to data and from satellites to sensors, the mission showed how technological expertise and practical knowledge come together in solutions that already make a difference today.

On the first day, participants gathered at Telespazio and Domaine de Candie, where robots, drones and data platforms came to life among the vineyards. French and Dutch experts shared insights on agrorobotics and data-driven cultivation, showing technology not as a vision of the future but as a tool that is already improving how we work, measure and decide. The royal couple watched attentively as demonstrations unfolded, including a Dutch robot capable of weeding without chemicals. For many, it was a clear reminder that technological progress doesn’t happen apart from the field, it starts there.

By the end of the day, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between WUR, FME and Fedecom representing the Netherlands, and INRAE, AXEMA, RobAgri and Agri Sud-Ouest representing France. The agreement focuses on three key themes: autonomous technologies for crop cultivation and harvesting, the safe application of AI in agricultural robotics, and sustainable farming with greater precision and fewer inputs. It marks the start of a long-term partnership that combines the strengths of both countries to share knowledge and accelerate innovation.

The second day revolved around networking and collaboration. Dutch entrepreneurs met French start-ups, research institutions and distributors during a series of matchmaking sessions. These conversations didn’t just bring fresh insights but also led to immediate opportunities. From pilot projects to distribution partnerships, the mission proved how quickly ideas can turn into action. What began as an introduction evolved into concrete prospects for cooperation in France, Europe’s largest agrotechnology market.

The Agrotech economic mission demonstrated how international collaboration accelerates innovation. For NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood, this aligns perfectly with the core values of the Handsfree Agrifood ecosystem — improve, broaden and accelerate. By connecting technology and practice, new possibilities emerge that help companies, researchers and growers move forward together. What began in Toulouse as a meeting is now growing into lasting cooperation that makes agriculture more resilient.