Ethiopia and Kenya have gained a larger share of the global flower market, challenging Colombia’s long-standing dominance. According to IATA Economics, the global air-transported flower trade has grown from$852 million in 2003 to $3.7 billion in 2024, with African exporters playing a bigger role.
Colombia remains the world’s top flower exporter, but its market share has fallen from50.2% in 2003 to 42.3% in 2024. In contrast, Kenya and Ethiopia have expanded their presence, displacing the Netherlands, which was among the top three exporters two decades ago.
Kenya’s floriculture industry benefits from year-round production conditions and established supply chains, particularly to European markets. Ethiopia has seen rapid growth in the sector, with government incentives attracting large-scale horticultural investments.
Key Drivers
Several factors have contributed to Ethiopia and Kenya’s increased market share:
- Trade agreementshave lowered tariffs and improved access to key export markets.
- Advances in air cargologistics have reduced spoilage and improved delivery times.
- Lower production costsin Africa have made exports more competitive.
