Imported Roses a Thorny Issue for NZ Rose Growers

The latest statistics on the importation of roses into New Zealand show that Indian imported roses are on the rise and in particular during the peak months May-September, with a spike in February associated with Valentines Day demand, and May for Mother's Day gift giving.

Prices on average including freight and insurance sit in the range 30-34c per stem during peak winter months however are commanding up to 46c in February.

At their highest point a total stem volume of just under 650,000 stems of roses were imported into New Zealand in the month of July.

Statistics are YTD to October 2013. It will be interesting to see if imports drop off in the out of season period for indian growers from October-January. Theres an opportunity for growers to look for market opportunities, including the buy New Zealand grown aspects and making the most of the natural peak in NZ roses through the summer months which are out of season for many imported flowers.

Other crop categories are also affected by imported flowers, India being again the main player for Lilies and Carnations. Peaking in July the imported Lily volume in 2013 was in excess of 51,000 stems at a price per stem including freight and insurance of $1.32 but this has been as high as $1.60

over the course of the season. In addition the importation of Chrysanthemums and Orchids from Malaysia is showing up as a significant market issue for these crops with 156,000 Orchid Stems being imported into NZ YTD from Malaysia, peaking in May. Just under 120,000 stems of Chrysanthemums have arrived ex Malaysia and the peak month of importation is August for this crop.

For more information you can contact the New Zealand Flower Growers Association on [email protected]