Top 10 Products Imported by the Netherlands from Africa
Recent country-specific bilateral data to that sketch some of the key product flows and infer what might feature highly.
While specific data for the “top 10” aggregated product imports from Africa into the Netherlands are limited in publicly available sources, we can draw on recent country-specific bilateral data to sketch some of the key product flows and infer what might feature highly.
Select product flows
From Uganda: In 2024 the Netherlands imported about US$192.8 million worth of goods from Uganda. The top product categories included cocoa & cocoa preparations (~US$78.95 m), live trees/plants/bulbs/roots/cut flowers (~US$55.65 m), and coffee/tea/mate/spices (~US$40.66 m). Trading Economics
From Kenya: In 2024 the Netherlands imported ~US$695.5 million from Kenya. A breakdown shows major goods like live plants, bulbs and roots (~US$425.8 m), edible fruits and nuts (~US$139.0 m), edible vegetables/roots/tubers (~US$28.9 m), oilseeds/grains/medicinal plants (~US$28.7 m) and coffee/tea/spices (~US$20.0 m). Trendonify
Likely top import‐product categories (from Africa → Netherlands)
Based on the above and broader trade literature, some of the top import categories include:
Cut flowers & live plants (e.g., from Kenya, Uganda)
Edible fruits & nuts (citrus, melon peel, other)
Vegetables, roots and tubers
Coffee, tea, spices
Oil-seeds, grains, medicinal plants
Fish, crustaceans, molluscs (in smaller volumes)
Other processed agricultural/food preparations
Perhaps lesser amounts of minerals/resources/raw materials (though Dutch statistics often show fuels dominate Africa flows)
Horticultural/ornamental products
Specialty agricultural commodities (e.g., cocoa products)
Why this matters for importers & exporters
For Dutch importers: understanding which African goods are rising in volume (and value) offers insight for sourcing strategies, supply-chain diversification and niche market opportunities.
For African exporters: insights on what the Netherlands is importing can help align production, standards (e.g., for cut-flowers, horticulture), and logistics to meet Dutch/regional European demand.
For policy and development: shifts in product composition (from raw commodities to processed goods) hint at value-chain upgrading in Africa, which could influence trade policy and collaboration frameworks.
Questions for your input
Based on your experience: Which product lines from East Africa are easiest/hardest to channel into the Netherlands market (regulatory, logistics, pricing)?
Are you seeing new categories (e.g., processed foods, value-added horticulture) emerging into Dutch imports from East Africa?
How important is transit/re-export via the Netherlands (versus direct import) in your sector?
Topics
Trade Statistics-Netherlands-East Africa (2025 )
In recent years, the Netherlands has continued to be a major open economy and global trading hub
Country Snapshot - Kenya
Major imports from Kenya into the Netherlands and Kenya’s exports to the Netherlands.
Country Snapshot - Uganda
Uganda’s horticulture sector has potential for further growth into the Dutch market, particularly if supply-chain reliability and quality standards are met.
Top 10 Products Imported by the Netherlands from Africa
Recent country-specific bilateral data to that sketch some of the key product flows and infer what might feature highly.
Country Snapshot - Ethiopia
These snapshots provide a strategic overview of the Netherlands–East Africa trade relationships and the broader statistical context for the Netherlands–Africa trade.
How currency fluctuation affect Import & Export Trade
Traders who invoice in euros gained predictability, while those who invoice in local currency absorbed unexpected currency costs.
Country Snapshot Reports : four key East African markets
The Country Snapshot Reports provide a clear and accessible overview of four key East African markets—Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Country Snapshot - Tanzania
Dutch importers looking to diversify supply from East Africa might look at Tanzania as an alternative to Kenya/Uganda.
Related Topics
Articles on Trade , Logistics and Market Trends
Staying current with trade, logistics and market-trend articles is essential in the global trade enviroment. They help to highlight emerging opportunities.
Emerging Markets & Shifting Global Demand
Global demand patterns are shifting, Dutch exporters and trade promotion agencies should read the developments correctly and act upon them.
Case Studies
Case studies provide real-world examples of how businesses and development partners collaborate to unlock trade potential.
Regional Trade Agreements
The rise of regional trade agreements (RTAs) is reshaping how East Africa and the Netherlands connect economically.
Market Expansion
Market expansion represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities.
Growth in Emerging Regions
Recent economic dynamism across East Africa is reshaping import demand and export potential.
Main Topics
Boost Your Business Today
In today’s fast-paced world, growth is about more than just having a great idea — it’s about making the right connections, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities.
New Global Trends in Import & Export
Understanding the new Import & Export trends is key for exporters, importers, logistics providers, and everyone in between.
Resources for Import & Export
Resources for Import & Export” brings together practical information and digital assets that help businesses navigate the complexities of international trade.