China: Geert Leffers plants first crops inside Beijing HongFu greenhouse

Three years ago grower Geert Leffers, his financial partners and Dutch produce trader Levarht had a dream; growing the best and tastiest tomatoes in China. And, not to forget, by setting the highest standards in food safety. They founded Beijing HongFu International Algriculture Co and by establishing Dutch style glasshouses, using the best Dutch technology and selecting the best varieties, they are now convinced to succeed in this ambition.

The first plants have just been delivered to their glasshouse and they have started planning. "In the coming days our colleagues have to work hard to put over 180.000 plants in place. Early February we expect to harvest our first cherry tomatoes, beef tomatoes and vine tomatoes", the group said in a news release.

“This is really a great day for all our colleagues and partners, who invested so much time and energy into this first project", said grower Geert Leffers. "We can all be very proud of what we have achieved”. According to Managing Director Li Zhaoyang this is the beginning of an ambitious plan, “this day is an important day for us, it is also an important step towards further growth”.

"The philosophy of the strong partnership between Beijing HongFu International Algriculture Co.and Levarht is founded on “Setting New Standards”. Especially for China new standards in growing, in biological crop protection, in food safety and in the selection of the best varieties. But also in concept branding, which we have developed with our partners in retail, online and the processing industry. All developed from the demand of the Chinese consumer."

“Because it is all about satisfying consumer’s needs and demands”, according to Claas van Os, Commercial Director of Levarht.