Colombia's flower industry keeps thriving for Mother's Day celebration

MIAMI, May 6, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- This Mother's Day most of the fresh cut flowers sold in the U.S. will be imported from Colombia. Mother's Day is actually one of the 3 most important dates for the Canadian flower industry in addition to Valentine's Day, and Christmas. Colombia is the largest supplier of flowers and second worldwide with more than 80% of its production reaching the U.S. and Canada. Mother's Day is a vital celebration for the flower industry in the US and it is projected to generate close to U.S. $2.4 billion in sales during this year's celebration according to the National Retail Federation (NRF).

The floriculture sector is a substantial contributor to the Colombian economy. In 2015, the country exported US$1.2 billion of flowers mainly to the U.S., Canada, UK, Japan and Russia; where fresh cut roses, carnations, pompons, alstroemerias, and small carnations are sold in department stores, specialty shoppes; as well as online according to ProColombia, the Colombian Government promotion agency. The U.S. alone imports close to 156,265 tons of flowers sold and distributed mainly in Florida, California and Massachusetts, totaling more than U.S. $1,248 million to 2015. The industry also generates 130,000 direct and indirect jobs and provides employment opportunities for thousands of women.

Colombia is also the largest supplier of fresh cut roses for the U.S. and Canada. Chances are that 7 times out of 10 these roses will come from Colombia. According to ProColombia, the country's exotic varieties, top quality, streamlined export processes, and year round production due to its ideal climate are some of the main drivers which have gained the floricultural industry worldwide recognition.

Colombia's floricultural industry has over 40 years of tradition and produces over 1,500 flower species grown in more than 7,200 hectares. The country harvests the largest variety of exotic flowers that has allowed the country to stay ahead of international trends. Today, worldwide demand is met by Netherlands, Colombia, Ecuador and Kenya, where Colombia leads as the largest exporter of carnations and the second of flowers. To support the industry, the Colombian Association of Flower Exporters (Asocolflores) brings together 75% of the national exporters as well as the Center of Innovation for the Colombian Floricultural Industry, Ceniflores the body in charge of strengthening the sector's competitiveness through government academic programs.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Andrea Lopez, ProColombia Communications Director
Email: [email protected] Tel: (305) 374-3144 Ext. 66173

SOURCE ProColombia, The Colombian Government Trade Bureau

Related Links

http://www.procolombia.co/en