To increase the sale and export of animal manure, Minister Wiersma of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN) has appointed Raymond Knops as envoy for promoting the export of animal fertilizers. Knops previously conducted a study to increase the granting of permits for manure processing capacities. In his role as envoy, he will first focus on exports to neighboring European countries. As a figurehead, Knops will lead three export missions in Europe, establish international contacts, and thus support the sale of Dutch manure products abroad.

Minister Wiersma: “Raymond Knops has international experience and has gained much knowledge in the field of manure and manure processing through his previous exploration for manure processing capacities. He also pointed out the opportunities for export. I am pleased that he can support the unlocking of possible new markets for Dutch manure products in his new role.”

Knops will deliver a brief report on the export opportunities to European countries in September, after the trade missions.

Promoting the export of animal manure is one of the measures within the broader approach to relieve pressure on the manure market. The Ministry of LVVN is currently investigating the demand for Dutch manure products abroad. The results of this study – such as promising regions for the export of manure and the necessary regulations - will be presented during a symposium on March 20, organized in collaboration with the Dutch Center for Manure Processing (NCM) and Cumela. The LVVN Attaché Network from potential sales markets will also be present. They will also prepare the export missions for interested companies. With these steps, the minister aims to unlock new markets and improve sales opportunities for Dutch manure products.

Manure export is one of the tracks to relieve the current pressure on the manure market. The letter to Parliament of September 2024 describes the complete package, which also includes stimulating manure processing capacities, research into processing animal manure into potting soil, RENURE, adjusting nitrogen excretion forfaits, and capping when trading animal rights in various sectors. Manure export is an important track because animal manure contains useful nutrients for other regions that are in search of them. Besides being a solution for the current situation in the manure market, it can also become a revenue model for farmers.