The International Floriculture Trade Expo (IFTEX) 2024 has drawn the curtains! We are certainly filled with excitement over the success of this year’s event. According to Dick Van Raamsdonk, CEO of HPP Exhibitions, the event was a success! This 11th edition of IFTEX was particularly special to us too as it coincided with Floriculture Magazine’s 25th anniversary.
Over the past quarter-century, we have had the privilege of documenting and celebrating the growth and innovation within the floriculture industry, and this year’s expo truly showcased the best of what our sector has to offer.
A Thriving Industry
Kenya’s floriculture industry continues to be a cornerstone of the nation’s economy. With around 5,000 hectares dedicated to flower cultivation, the industry exports over 200,000 tonnes of flowers annually, valued at approximately $900 million. The sector provides employment to over 200,000 workers, predominantly in rural areas, and indirectly supports around 1 million people involved in the supply chain, impacting over 4 million lives.
The opening ceremony featured inspiring speeches from key industry figures. The Chief guest, Dr. Idris Salim Dokota, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Cabinet Affairs, (representing the Deputy President H.E. Rigathi Gachagua) reiterated the government’s support for the floriculture sector through the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). He spoke on the importance of creating a conducive business environment, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting eco-friendly practices to ensure the sector’s competitiveness in the global market. Dr. Dokota also celebrated recent trade agreements that have opened new opportunities for Kenyan floriculture exports.
Kenya Flower Council Chairman Christopher Kulei emphasized the importance of sustainability and public-private cooperation in unlocking the full potential of Kenya’s floriculture sector. He highlighted the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices, from reducing and recycling water usage to adopting greener logistics and utilizing solar energy.
Christine Chesaro, Director of the Horticulture Crops Directorate (HDC), emphasized the critical role of Kenya’s floriculture industry in global markets. She noted that Kenya’s floriculture sector continues to thrive as a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural exports, contributing significantly to the economy and livelihoods of thousands. She underscored the importance of maintaining high-quality standards and adherence to phytosanitary regulations to ensure Kenya’s competitiveness in the global flower trade.
Prof. Theophilus Mutui, Managing Director of KEPHIS, underscored the critical role of regulatory agencies in facilitating market access and compliance with international standards. He highlighted KEPHIS’s initiatives in plant variety protection, which ensures that breeders of new flower varieties are protected, fostering innovation and market growth. Prof. Mutui also addressed the challenges posed by climate change and pests, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation and training within the sector.
The Highlights
The Expo was a grand showcase of floral beauty and industry innovations, drawing nearly 200 exhibitors from across the globe. It was a buzz with activity as exhibitors hurried to amass clients and expand their networks. Among the exhibitors was Amiran Kenya, A private limited company and a subsidiary of Balton CP, which is owned by CP Holdings Limited. Another often exhibitor of FTEX was Koppert Biological Systems, which Specializes in sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in biological pest control and natural pollination, alongside Osho Chemicals, a prominent player in the agricultural chemicals industry, Danziger, who specializes in the breeding and production of ornamental plants and flowers, Lachlan, a company involved with the distribution of agricultural inputs, including seeds, crop protection products, and fertilizers. Redlands, a leader in the cultivation and export of high-quality roses. They are recognized for their sustainable farming practices and commitment to environmental stewardship and others.
A Conspicuous Debut
Again, this year, the event was particularly notable for the introduction of several first-time exhibitors, whose participation added a fresh and dynamic dimension to the expo. Among these were Ole Engai Growers, Roto Moulders Ltd, Wooton Automotive, Cipasi Karton Group, Coconut Products Impex, Broban Export and Import Agencies, Cold Solutions Kenya Ltd, Exceptional Africalla, Faber Infinite Consulting, Fataki Packing, Figorr, Flower Cliq Ltd, FOWE, Henrany Flora, Horaizo Blooms, Insonshade, Lima Labs, Moriah Griowers, Organix Ltd, Ranges Imporrts and Exports, Royal and Fresh Ltd, Shri Ambica Polymers, Shri Krishana Overseas, Thursd, Two Chiefs Trading, Wakulima Marigiti, Yunique Flowers and Roses, Zen Engineering and Zipzap Flowers among others, with each bringing unique expertise to the event.
The inclusion of all these first-time exhibitors among others at the International Flower Trade Expo enriched the event with new ideas, products, and perspectives. Their contributions not only demonstrated the diverse opportunities within the flower industry but also underscored the importance of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. As the flower trade continues to gain traction, the fresh energy and expertise brought by these new entrants will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry. The successful participation serves as an inspiration for other emerging companies to join the international stage, further enhancing the vibrancy and growth of the global flower market.
An Evening of Celebration
To break the routine of work and add some zest, IFTEX 2024 concluded one of its fair days with a lively gathering—a celebratory party for all participants, honoring the splendor and success of the flower industry. Amid music, dancing, and delicacies, attendees continued networking and enjoying themselves well into the late hours of the night.
As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Floriculture Magazine, we reflect on the incredible journey of the past two and a half decades. We have witnessed remarkable transformations and advancements, and we are excited about the future of floriculture. The success of IFTEX 2024 is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of everyone involved in this industry.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the exhibitors, participants, and organizers who made IFTEX 2024 a memorable event. Your contributions are shaping the future of floriculture and ensuring that Kenya remains a global leader in this sector.
Here’s to another 25 years of growth, innovation, and beautiful blooms!