Mustafa Doujar, a respected businessman in the Netherlands, has been a cornerstone of the greenhouse industry for 30 years, producing a variety of vegetables. In addition to his entrepreneurial activities, Dujar headed the Rotterdam branch of MÜSİAD and the Dutch Karaman Federation (HOKAF) for two terms each.
The journey of Mustafa Duyar: from immigrant to greenhouse magnate
Mustafa Dujar’s story is one of passion, hard work and dedication to the Dutch greenhouse industry. Arriving in the country at the age of nine and completing his education there, Dujar began working in the greenhouse sector from a young age. By 1996, he founded his own company, starting with just 15 people and today employing about 200 people.
Construction of modern greenhouses
Duyar is proud to have some of the most modern greenhouses in the Netherlands. In its greenhouses, covering an area of 65 hectares, hot peppers, bell peppers, cucumbers and eggplants are grown. This state-of-the-art installation is the result of Dujar’s deep understanding of the industry, gained through hands-on experience and a strong partnership with his Dutch mentor. He recalls his mentor’s confidence in his abilities as fueling his entrepreneurial journey: “You make, we sell,” his mentor suggested, leading to a highly successful collaboration over the years.
Daily commitment and expertise
Dujar’s daily routine includes early mornings and hands-on greenhouse management. His expertise in determining the ideal time to harvest tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers and eggplants is akin to a doctor’s diagnostic skills honed over four decades in the field. He attributes the Netherlands’ success in greenhouse farming to a disciplined approach and a focus on continuous improvement, such as experimenting with new seeds and pruning techniques to improve the quality and quantity of the crop.
Achieving high profitability
Dujar emphasizes that Dutch greenhouses can produce up to 40 kilograms of bell pepper per square meter, which is unmatched in other countries. This high yield is due to careful climate control and expert advice. Duyar believes similar results can be achieved in Turkey with the right infrastructure and knowledge transfer, potentially reaching 35 kilograms per square meter.
Community Leadership and Advocacy
In addition to his business achievements, Dujar was a prominent figure in various organizations. He was president of the Rotterdam branch of MÜSIAD, playing a decisive role in its creation and development. In addition, he took charge of the Dutch Karaman Federation (HOKAF), transforming it from a foundation into a federation representing Karaman’s many village associations.
Encouraging the next generation
Duyar encourages young entrepreneurs to be bold and diligent, citing the hadith: “Trade, because nine-tenths of livelihood lies in trade.” He believes that hands-on involvement and persistence are the keys to business success. Dujar also stresses the importance of supporting Turkish media in the Netherlands, recognizing their role in society.
Mustafa Duyar’s story is a testament to the impact of dedication, experience and community involvement in the agricultural industry. His journey from a young immigrant to a leading figure in the Dutch greenhouse sector serves as an inspiration for future generations of entrepreneurs.
