Kenya is now the third-largest flower exporter in the global air transported flower trade, according to International Air Transport Association (IATA). Ethiopia follows closely, ranking fourth. This shift highlights Kenya’s growing role in international flower trade.
Between 2003 and 2024, the global flower trade grew significantly. In 2003, the industry was worth $852 million. By 2024, the market expanded fourfold, reaching $3.7 billion. This growth reflects the rising demand for fresh-cut flowers globally. Air transport plays a crucial role in maintaining quality during transit, enhancing the flower trade.
Kenya’s Market Share in Flower Trade
In 2003, Colombia led with a 50.2% share, followed by Ecuador at 16.2% and the Netherlands at 8.9%. Kenya ranked fourth with an 8.6% share. By 2024, Kenya nearly doubled its share to 16.1%, securing third place. Ethiopia gained traction, reaching a 5.5% share. Colombia and Ecuador remained dominant, though Colombia’s share dropped to 42.3%. Ecuador’s share increased to 26.1%. The Netherlands no longer appeared as a standalone flower exporter but evolved its role in flower trade.
Two major factors contributed to this transformation in the flower market:
Trade Agreements: Lower tariffs and trade barriers enabled more exports, helping developing countries access wider markets and grow the flower trade.
Advancements in Air Cargo: Improved refrigeration, logistics, and transportation efficiency allowed fresh-cut flowers to reach global markets in optimal condition. These improvements led to greater market concentration and specialisation. Kenyan exporters capitalised on new opportunities in the flower trade.
Source: IATA Sustainability and Economics, using data from Global Trade Tracker
Major Importing Countries of Flowers
In 2003, the United States led flower imports with a 66.3% share, followed by the UK (12.1%) and Germany (4.4%). Other nations accounted for 17.2%. By 2024, the US remained the largest flower importer, though its share declined to 53.6%. The Netherlands became the second-largest flower importer, holding 31.2%, evolving into a major redistribution hub. The UK followed with 5.5%, while the rest of the world accounted for 9.4%.
With better logistics, trade policies, and flower transportation, Kenyan exporters will strengthen their global position. The demand for high-quality fresh-cut flowers continues to grow. This presents Kenya with immense opportunities to expand and solidify its role in global flower trade networks.
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