Dutch capsicum brand settles down in China
Earlier today, an official brand and product launch took place in Shanghai. The first Dutch Valley mission was officially handed over by the Dutch Consul General Anneke Adema and Matthijs Jasperse (Director FVO China BV) to a selected group of Chinese retailers.
To the left, Anneke Adema and Matthijs Jasperse
In the presence of Dutch distributors and a grower, Dutch Valley Peppers, were enthusiastically received. The latest developments, backgrounds, distribution locations in China and different ways of tasting and serving the peppers (including live tastings) were discussed. An explanation was given to reporters and journalists present on Dutch pepper cultivation methods, the use of natural pesticides and the benefits of 'controlled production'.
Consul General Anneke Adema spoke about cooperation between the countries. "China and the Netherlands can work together in distribution and sharing knowledge and technology." Food safety plays an important role. "It is extremely important that Chinese consumers can trust the food they eat and that the vegetables are not harmful to their health. Controlled production is something we are very good at in the Netherlands and that is what we can do for China."
The first
The Netherlands is the first country in the world to export bell peppers to China. Both Dutch producers and exporters see opportunities based on the high need for food-safe products and the years of experience with peppers. The six largest Dutch producer organizations recently jointly established FVO China BV.
The aim of this company is to sell all China-certified peppers. "Key elements include close cooperation with a select group of exporters, the development of a distinctive brand and a joint approach in distribution and marketing," says Matthijs Jasperse, FVO Director.
Although there are plenty of domestic pepper productions in China, there is still a demand for Dutch peppers. "The innovative cultivation methods, high food safety standards, natural pesticides and high-end supplements make Dutch peppers very attractive."
In recent months, the Dutch Valley brand has been well established. "Strong brand strategy is the only correct way to set foot in China and be successful. Dutch Valley focuses on Chinese consumers who are willing to pay extra for imported high quality products with exceptional levels of freshness and safety", According to Matthijs. "The Dutch Valley brand stands for innovation, variety, high quality and exclusivity."
Consumption of raw peppers a novelty on market
For Chinese it is not common to eat bell peppers raw. Most of the audience will likely also not know the orange pepper variety. Sweet pepper varieties like the orange snack pepper, sweet bell pepper and the red, yellow and orange block peppers are ideal to consume as a snack or to eat raw.
With the launch and further rollout of Dutch Valley, it is a challenge to introduce Chinese consumers to different eating habits than they are used to. In the coming period, much attention will be paid to informing the consumer. "In shops, tastings take place so that the Chinese consumer can immediately meet Dutch high quality paprika and the different flavors and cooking methods."
By means of a QR code on the packaging, Chinese consumers can get more information about the Dutch Valley peppers. Various recipes can be found on the following website: www.dutch-valley.eu, which also hosts a video about how the Dutch Valley pepper is grown.
For more information:
Dutch Valley
www.dutch-valley.eu
info@dutch-valley.eu
0031 6 224 338 99
Matthijs Jasperse