The Netherlands-Nigeria Trade Relations and Floriculture Exports from Plateau State

This research investigates the trade relationship between the Netherlands and Nigeria, with particular focus on the potential for floriculture exports from Plateau State in North-Central Nigeria to the Dutch flower market. The Netherlands is the world's largest exporter and auction centre for cut flowers, and Nigeria's temperate highland climate, particularly in Jos and its environs, has been identified by horticultural experts as suitable for commercial flower cultivation. However, structured bilateral trade in this sector remains underdeveloped. This descriptive study draws on secondary sources including Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) programme documents, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) export data, and academic literature on African horticultural trade published between 2019 and 2024. Field interviews were conducted with floriculture farmers, cooperatives, and agricultural extension agents in Plateau State to assess current production levels, quality standards, and awareness of Dutch market requirements. The study analyses barriers to entry, including cold chain logistics, phytosanitary certification, and packaging standards required by European importers, and identifies opportunities for Dutch development assistance in bridging these gaps. Findings are intended to equip undergraduate students with a practical understanding of how bilateral European-Nigerian trade relationships can be developed in non-traditional export sectors. Keywords: Netherlands-Nigeria trade, floriculture, Plateau State, North-Central Nigeria, export development.