Rabobank identifies key trends in the global greenhouse industry

The global greenhouse sector continues to adapt to new challenges. It is influenced by countries’ desire for self-sufficiency, climate risks, and the adoption of technology, according to a Rabobank report.

Following the coronavirus pandemic, governments are increasingly supporting domestic vegetable production. This is influencing the structure of greenhouse investment and stimulating the development of high-tech solutions.

Tomatoes remain the base crop, but strawberries and leafy greens are becoming growth drivers. Experimentation with alternative crops continues to expand, although commercial breakthroughs remain a distant prospect.

The sector is actively implementing new technologies. According to Rabobank, robotics is accelerating, particularly in harvesting. The rapid construction of data centers is creating opportunities for the use of residual heat in greenhouse complexes.

Climate change remains a key long-term factor. More extreme weather and increased pest and disease threats may require investments in adaptation measures at the plant, greenhouse, supply chain, and country levels.

Regional differences:

• North America: Canada is increasing production, the US is reducing self-sufficiency in key vegetables, and Mexico is strengthening its position;
• Europe and North Africa: competition from Spain and Morocco is intensifying, while consolidation continues in the Netherlands;
• Asia, led by China, is rapidly expanding its greenhouse acreage, from low-tech to high-tech greenhouses.

According to Rabobank, 2026 will be a period when self-sufficiency, climate, energy, and technology are simultaneously creating new opportunities and challenges for the global greenhouse industry.

Tags: greenhouse