NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya’s floriculture sector is showing strong resilience and global competitiveness despite rising geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and increasing freight costs, as preparations intensify for the International Floriculture Trade Expo (IFTEX) 2026.
The upcoming 13th edition of the expo, scheduled for June 2–4, will feature 210 exhibitors, up from 189 last year, marking the highest participation in the event’s history and reinforcing Kenya’s position as a leading global flower exporter.
Record Participation Signals Industry Confidence
Organisers say the growth in exhibitors reflects renewed investor confidence in Kenya’s cut flower industry despite global economic uncertainty.
Speaking during the pre-IFTEX 2026 media briefing, HPP International Group CEO Dick van Raamsdonk described the expo as a “barometer for the global flower trade,” noting that participation levels highlight sector resilience.
“In a year when many industries are cautious, participation at IFTEX sends a very different message. This sector is resilient, confident and forward-looking,” he said.
He added that nearly 20 pc of new exhibitors are first-time growers, signalling continued expansion and diversification within the sector.
Strong Economic Contribution
According to the Kenya Flower Council, the floriculture sector generated about Sh110 billion in export earnings in 2025, contributing 1.5 pc to Kenya’s GDP and supporting more than one million livelihoods.
More than 60 pc of workers in the industry are women, making it one of the country’s most significant employers in the agricultural value chain.
KFC officials described Kenya’s floriculture industry as one of Africa’s leading agricultural success stories and a growing global benchmark for sustainable flower production.
Rising Freight and Input Costs Threaten Growth
Despite the strong performance, the industry is facing mounting operational challenges linked to global logistics disruptions and rising production costs.
The Kenya Flower Council warned that air freight costs have surged from about USD 3.10 per kilogram to nearly USD 5 per kilogram, significantly increasing export expenses.
The council estimates that up to USD 4 million worth of flower exports are at risk weekly due to delays and perishability issues.
Fertiliser prices have also risen sharply by about 25 pc, further squeezing production margins for growers.
Industry projections suggest that prolonged disruptions could lead to monthly export losses exceeding USD 15 million and threaten up to 50,000 jobs if not addressed.
Strong Export Performance Sustained
Despite these challenges, Kenya continues to dominate regional and global flower exports.
The Agriculture and Food Authority reports that horticultural exports reached Sh143.78 billion in 2025, with cut flowers accounting for 62 pc of the total export value.
Kenya exported flowers to 143 global destinations, with roses making up about 69 pc of total exports.
Focus on Compliance and Market Expansion
The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service says the country is strengthening phytosanitary compliance through digital certification systems, laboratory upgrades, and improved pest control measures to maintain access to key export markets.
Officials noted that Kenya currently holds about 38 pc of the European Union’s rose market and is actively expanding into Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
IFTEX 2026 as Strategic Platform
Organisers say IFTEX 2026 will serve not only as a trade exhibition but also as a strategic forum for addressing sustainability, logistics, and market diversification challenges shaping the future of global floriculture.
The event is expected to strengthen Kenya’s position as a key global hub for cut flower production and trade, even as the industry navigates rising costs and global market volatility.