BASF expands vegetable seed unit in the Netherlands

BASF Agricultural Solutions has announced a €40 million investment in the modernization and expansion of its seed processing facilities in Nunhem, Netherlands. The investment aims to strengthen the company's global supply of vegetable seeds. The company has scheduled the start of construction for the second quarter of 2026, with completion expected by the end of 2028.

The project involves the headquarters of BASF's vegetable seed business. The operation is part of BASF Nunhems. The company highlighted the move as part of a long-term strategy to sustain growth and expand its presence in the global vegetable seed market. The goal follows the high demand in all regions served by the company.

BASF Nunhems maintains a portfolio of 1.200 seed varieties across 20 crops, including tomatoes, onions, and carrots. According to the company, this material aims to support producers facing challenges such as drought, heat waves, labor shortages, and disease pressure. The investment in Nunhems should expand the capacity to deliver high-quality seeds to markets in various parts of the world.

Processing facilities

Today, the processing facilities total approximately 20 square meters. Seeds produced throughout the company's global supply network are sent to Nunhem. There, they undergo cleaning, processing, testing, and final preparation before distribution to customers. With the new project, the total structure at the site will grow by approximately 6 square meters.

The plan includes the renovation of two buildings already used in processing, the upgrading of two operational areas, and the construction of new facilities. The company also plans to adopt state-of-the-art processing equipment and technologies to store, package, and ship seeds with greater precision and efficiency. Another focus of the investment is on quality assurance infrastructure. The proposal includes high-capacity testing to ensure compliance with producers' requirements.

Renewable energy

BASF also reported that, after the completion of the works, the entire processing operation in Nunhem will run on renewable energy. The change should increase energy efficiency and reduce emissions. The announcement links the industrial expansion to operational and environmental goals in the seed business.

Maximilian Becker, senior vice president of BASF Nunhems, stated in the press release that the investment represents an important step in strengthening the global supply of vegetable seeds. According to him, the expansion and modernization of processing capacity in Nunhem reinforces the company's commitment to continuous innovation and the supply of high-quality seeds to support customer performance.