Dutch food industry warns grocery prices could rise further without government action

Dutch food producers are calling on the government to take action to prevent supermarket prices from becoming too expensive for consumers. According to the Federation of the Dutch Food Industry (FNLI), groceries are likely to become more costly in the months ahead as transport and energy expenses continue to climb rapidly.

The FNLI is warning about an accumulation of national taxes and levies on top of rising international costs. “Proposed measures such as a sugar tax, an excise duty increase on alcoholic beverages, and an additional levy on packaging are being added to existing charges, including the consumption tax on non-alcoholic drinks. Combined with increasing regulatory pressure, this raises the burden on companies and could result in higher prices in shops,” the industry organisation said.

The food industry is calling on the Dutch government to take measures to ease costs, restore competitiveness, and safeguard production in the Netherlands. “Ensure stable and competitive energy prices, among other things, and avoid introducing additional national levies on electricity, gas, or packaging. Especially now, it is important to implement policies that contribute to stability in the supply chain and keep choices affordable for consumers. New measures should also be carefully assessed for effectiveness, feasibility, and affordability,” the FNLI said.

According to the organisation, international disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East are affecting the entire supply chain. “Higher and more volatile costs for energy, logistics, packaging, and raw materials are piling up. Although the causes originate outside the Netherlands, the consequences are being felt here directly: in factories, during transport, and ultimately in shops.”