Kenya’s floriculture industry has recorded continued growth momentum despite increasing global freight disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and rising supply chain costs, as preparations intensify for the International Floriculture Trade Expo (IFTEX) 2026.
Organisers confirmed that the upcoming 13th edition of the expo, scheduled for June 2 to June 4, will feature 210 exhibitors, up from 189 in the previous year, marking the highest participation level in the event’s history. The increase is being interpreted as a strong signal of sustained international confidence in Kenya’s position as a leading global flower export hub.
Industry stakeholders noted that nearly 20 percent of the new exhibitors are first-time entrants, reflecting continued expansion and renewed investor interest in the sector even amid global uncertainty.
In a statement on the development, HPP International Group CEO, Dick van Raamsdonk, said participation growth highlights the sector’s resilience and forward-looking outlook despite challenging global conditions.
“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, adding that the exhibition has evolved beyond showcasing flowers to representing the future of global floriculture.
Kenya remains one of Africa’s strongest agricultural export performers, with the flower industry serving as a major foreign exchange earner and employment driver. According to the Kenya Flower Council (KFC), the sector generated about US$845 million (KES110 billion) in export revenue in 2025, contributing approximately 1.5 percent to Kenya’s GDP and supporting over one million livelihoods, with women accounting for more than 60 percent of the workforce.
Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that despite this strong performance, the sector is currently facing rising operational pressures, particularly from freight cost escalation, shipping disruptions linked to geopolitical instability in the Middle East, and volatility in logistics supply chains.
Industry data shows that air freight costs have surged from about US$3.10 per kilogram to nearly US$5.00 per kilogram, while logistics expenses now account for up to 60 percent of total export costs during peak periods. The Kenya Flower Council estimates that around US$4 million worth of flower exports are at risk weekly due to shipment delays and perishability challenges, while fertiliser prices have risen by 25 percent within a single week. Some producers have also reported revenue declines of up to 75 percent due to disrupted delivery timelines.
Despite these headwinds, Kenya continues to strengthen its global floriculture position. The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) reported that horticultural exports reached KES143.78 billion in 2025, with cut flowers contributing 62 percent of total export value. Kenya exported flowers to 143 global destinations, with roses accounting for approximately 69 percent of total flower shipments.
IFTEX 2026 is expected to serve as a strategic platform for reinforcing Kenya’s competitiveness, improving stakeholder collaboration, and addressing emerging sector challenges.
Acting AFA Director General Calistus Kundu, represented by Isdorah Odundo, noted that the expo will strengthen confidence in the horticultural value chain while supporting trade expansion discussions across global markets.
Meanwhile, Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) emphasized the importance of compliance and certification in sustaining export competitiveness. Dr. Isaac Macharia, Director of Phytosanitary and Biosecurity Services, said adherence to international market standards remains a critical advantage for Kenya’s floriculture exports as the industry prepares for IFTEX 2026.
