On 2 March, 2023, Naktuinbouw's auditor stated that the annual accounts were prepared in accordance with Book 2, Title 9 of the Dutch Civil Code. The annual accounts present a true and fair view of the extent and composition of the assets as of 31 December 2022 and of the results noted for 2022.
The auditor also declared that the applicable inspection protocol of inspection institutions of the Ministry of Economic Affairs dated 6 February 2003 has been complied with, as well as the Senior Executives in the Public and Semi-Public Sector (Standard Remuneration) Act (WNT) inspection protocol. The Board adopted the annual accounts on 10 March 2023.
In the public sector, Naktuinbouw performs (government) tasks in accordance with Dutch and European legislation. These primarily concern inspections and variety testing. In addition, we offer a range of services for the private sector. These services are not directly based on legislation, but have a direct link with legislation. This includes services such as the quality-plus programmes, testing and training. Companies can decide to use these services voluntarily. A distinction is made in the fees, reports and financial accountability between the activities performed in accordance with legislation and the activities in the private sector.
In 2022, the operating volume amounted to € 38.4 million. The 2022 financial year closed with a positive result, after tax, of € 596,000. Naktuinbouw is financially healthy. Our solvency and liquidity positions are amply sufficient.
Naktuinbouw is non-profit making organisation. The inspection fees for the performance of our statutory tasks have been established in accordance with the requirements of the Seed and Planting Materials Act 2005. The fees are approved by the Minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. We operate according to the cost-maker cost-bearer principle. This means that the revenues from these activities are based on fees that cover the costs for variety testing, inspections and activities performed at the laboratories.
We use methodology studies to improve the quality of DUS testing commissioned by the Board for Plant Varieties and the Community Plant Variety Office (CPVO). The objective of the Plant Variety Protection Toolbox is to assist other countries in developing, implementing and improving Plant Breeders’ Rights systems. For the methodology studies and the Toolbox programme, we received funding of € 251,000 and € 230,000 respectively from the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV).