The Rise and Rise of Colombian Roses

While volumes of Indian flowers into NZ may have levelled off in recent years, the latest statistics are showing an increase in roses overall. It appears that the main impact is from Colombian flowers, especially the big headed roses, which continue to increase in number.  The chart below shows how Colombian rose imports have increased over the period 2012-2016. Monthly figures for 2016 saw Colombian rose imports peak in July and August so it seems likely these are being imported in New Zealand's off season to allow for year round supply of quality roses. Stem costs have also risen since 2014 by almost 10% probably due to increasted freight costs faced by importers and exporters alike.

According to NZFGA Executive Officer Chris Smellie "The growth of Columbian rose imports is of some concern ot local rose growers. The Association has been assured by MPI staff that these flowers are receiving the correct de vitalisation treatment and the buds will not open much. Nonetheless the large rose buds do have an appeal to consumers"

Indian Rose Production Down

NZFGA has commented that some regions of India have been experiencing impacts on production due to adverse climate conditions. In Bengaluvu approximately 250ha of roses in the area have suffered a 30% decline in yield due to low rainfall. The area sends around 1.5 million Dutch stemmed roses daily to international and local markets including the Gulf states, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Malaysia. Chris says that according to website reports, Hosakote in India has experienced excessive rainfall leading to poor production and supply of stemmed roses. Chris speculates that Indian roses are likely to sell for possibly double last years prices and potentially imported numbers will be down.