Kenya, Ethiopia lead global floral supply in Q3 2026

Florists conglomerate, Royal FloraHolland, noted a boost in international supplies from Kenya and Ethiopia in the third quarter of 2026, even when it lagged behind in pricing for consistently low product revenues 

Overall, the conglomerate noted a stable market for the third quarter. Although fewer units were traded in flowers, houseplants and garden plants compared with a year ago, positive pricing ensured that revenue remained largely stable. Higher prices compensated for the lower volume, particularly in houseplants and garden plants, while the cut-flower market faced the pressure of lower prices in a number of major product groups.

Thomas Bugel, chief grower value management at RFH, said, “It is good to see that flowers, plants and trees remained in high demand even during the extremely hot summer weather in the past quarter, at a level broadly comparable to last year. Flowers play an important role in bringing people together, whilst greenery in outdoor environments can help to limit ‘heat stress’ during hot summers. In a challenging market environment, the sector once again demonstrated its resilience this quarter. Entrepreneurship, market focus and added value are becoming increasingly important in this regard.”

The third quarter reflected high market volatility as the flowers and plants are having to largely adapt to its frequently changing conditions. As prices continue to soar, it speaks of stable demand for distinctive products and quality, acting as offset to a significant proportion of the lower volume.

Despite a challenging market environment, the sector is thus once again demonstrating its resilience. However, the differences between product groups remain significant, making entrepreneurship, market focus and added value increasingly important.