Last April, the first shipment of 500 potted plants went to Panama. Furthermore, destinations such as the Caribbean islands are emerging as a great opportunity for Colombia, given the importance of tourism and the organization of major events. All of this entails challenges for the country and for the tackling of the increased consumption of flowers, foliage and ornamentals.
According to the Deputy Minister of Agricultural Affairs, Juan Pablo Pineda, the project to support the producers is the result of a joint effort with ASOCOLFLORES and different national, regional and local institutions devoted to strengthening the competitiveness and quality of the production, including that of small producers.
Ornamental plants gaining market space
As for the initiative, the official highlighted the marketing of new products, such as ornamental plants, which are gaining ground for urban development projects and as an export product.
"We support small producers with very interesting programs, providing technical assistance, promoting good production practices and encouraging their participation in specialised events," explained Deputy Minister Pineda.
The most desirable species
The most common species grown by small producers are: Bird of Paradise, Dracaena, Heliconia and foliage (ruscus, leather fern, cocculus, linen and glitter).
The value of imports of live and ornamental plants amounted to 6.5 billion dollars, which represents an opportunity for producers of orchids, bromeliads or anthuriums, among other live plants grown in Colombia.
More than 500 producers are being supported with the implementation of strategies intended to optimise the supply chain and logistics in the country, with the participation of various institutions such as the ICA, ProColombia, the National Police, freight forwarders, airlines and the floriculture sector, among others.
Interesting data:
- In the first quarter, Colombia exported 349 million dollars’ worth of flowers and foliage; 7.4% less than in the same period a year earlier.
- Some of the major export products include roses, carnations, chrysanthemums and alstroemeria.
- The main destinations for Colombian flowers are the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan and Canada.
- Some of the strategies currently supported by the Ministry include the strengthening of the leading position of the floriculture sector in the main markets for Colombian flowers and the expansion to new destinations like China, Norway, Switzerland and the Caribbean islands.