De Heus, Rijk Zwaan strengthen Dutch agribusiness presence in South Korea

SOUTH KOREA – Dutch agribusiness companies De Heus Animal Nutrition and Rijk Zwaan have strengthened their presence in South Korea after officially launching new local operations, reinforcing agricultural cooperation between the Netherlands and one of Asia’s fastest-growing agri-food markets.

The two companies inaugurated their Korean operations during the first half of 2026, bringing advanced expertise in animal nutrition, livestock production and vegetable breeding closer to local farmers and agribusinesses.

De Heus officially launched De Heus Korea on May 12 following the completion of its acquisition of the Asian animal feed business of CJ Feed & Care. 

The transaction included several feed mills across Asia, with South Korea becoming a key market in the company’s regional growth strategy.

The launch ceremony brought together livestock producers, industry stakeholders and government representatives, including the Ambassador of the Netherlands to South Korea, who highlighted the growing agricultural partnership between the two countries.

Through the acquisition, De Heus gains access to CJ Feed & Care’s established manufacturing infrastructure, local workforce and distribution network. 

The company intends to combine its global expertise in precision animal nutrition, feed formulation and farm management with local market knowledge to improve livestock productivity and profitability.

The expansion strengthens De Heus’ position in Asia, where demand for high-quality compound feed and technical livestock services continues to grow as producers seek greater production efficiency and sustainability.

The Dutch feed manufacturer, which operates in more than 75 countries, has continued expanding internationally through acquisitions and investments in emerging livestock markets across Asia, Africa and Latin America.

Meanwhile, vegetable breeding company Rijk Zwaan officially inaugurated its South Korean subsidiary on June 24, formalising a presence it has maintained in the country for several years.

The new office strengthens the company’s ability to provide locally adapted vegetable varieties, technical support and research tailored to South Korea’s rapidly expanding greenhouse and smart farming industries.

The company supplies improved genetics for crops, including leafy vegetables, tomatoes and peppers, helping growers increase yields, enhance disease resistance and improve production efficiency.

Supporting South Korea’s agricultural modernisation

The launch of both companies reflects South Korea’s increasing investment in technology-driven agriculture as the country seeks to improve food security, productivity and environmental sustainability.

For De Heus, establishing a stronger local presence enables closer collaboration with livestock producers while supporting demand for more efficient feed solutions. 

For Rijk Zwaan, the dedicated subsidiary enhances its capacity to develop varieties suited to local climatic conditions and evolving consumer preferences.

The investments also highlight the growing role of Dutch agricultural technology in Asia. 

The Netherlands remains one of the world’s leading exporters of agricultural products and agri-food technology, with companies increasingly expanding into high-growth international markets.

By establishing dedicated operations in South Korea, both companies aim to strengthen knowledge transfer, improve customer support and contribute to the country’s ongoing agricultural transformation through innovations in animal nutrition, crop genetics and sustainable food production.

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