IFTF 2024 Wraps Up in Global Deliberations of Industry Challenges
Evidently IFTF 2024 was a success based on numbers the atmosphere being positive, with successful meetings and high energy among exhibitors
The 14th edition of the International Floriculture Trade Fair (IFTF 2024) just concluded a day ago at the Expo Greater Amsterdam, bringing two days of vibrant showcases, networking, and business opportunities to an end.
Known as one of the leading global trade shows for the floriculture industry, IFTF 2024 annually attracts participants from across the globe, bringing together buyers, growers, suppliers, and industry experts. The occasion offers a platform to delve further into some of the issues affecting the industry as they expound on opportunities necessary for sustainability.
This year’s event saw an increased number of visitors from the United States, with more growers coming in like Uganda making a first-time appearance as they marked a positive trend for international engagement.
IFTF 2024 made a concerted effort to deliberate on the global concerns affecting growers and buyers thus impacting the horticulture business. Among these issues were external factors impacting production, costs, and demand this year, including weather conditions, freight capacity issues, and economic uncertainties.
It was evident the IFTF 2024 was a success based on numbers, however despite the atmosphere being positive, with successful meetings and high energy among exhibitors, efforts at finding solutions for the underlying industry challenges remain a concern for many growers.
Weather Impacts on Production
Growers from Colombia, Ecuador, and Kenya reported significant weather-related challenges affecting flower production. This is geared up more due to the incoming consequences of the recently on-alert rainfall seasons.
Kenyan growers have faced a rise in pest issues, specifically the False Codling Moth, which thrives in humid conditions and is classified as a quarantine pest by the European Union, adding regulatory pressure.
In Colombia, heavy rains have led to a projected 15-25% reduction in flower yields, according to a Colombian producer. Meanwhile, Ecuador faced reduced production due to rain and cold weather earlier in the year, only to see a subsequent oversupply as a prolonged summer season boosted yields.
Freight Capacity and Rising Costs
Freight availability coupled with cost hurdles emerged as significant obstacles, particularly for growers shipping flowers to Europe. They decried the hike in prices and the insufficient number of air freights making it difficult for their businesses to thrive.
Kenyan and Ecuadorian exporters are contending with limited freight capacity, which is compounded by disruptions in the Red Sea, affecting sea freight options and prompting concerns ahead of high-demand holidays like Valentine’s Day.
“It’s a critical issue that could impact our ability to meet demand during peak seasons, hence despite attending this pomp flower fest, we seek to find solutions collectively to these issues for a continued modest way of operation,” shared a Kenyan grower.
Economic and Political Instabilities
Global economic and political factors having an impact on trade matters have further heightened uncertainty within the industry.
Kenyan producers anticipate that domestic tax increases will drive up costs, impacting profitability and leading to a reduction in numbers of productivity.
In the United States, where many buyers originate, the elections have raised questions regarding consumer spending trends and currency volatility. Industry stakeholders are wary of potential shifts in consumer behavior, especially concerning discretionary spending on flowers.
Outlook for the Coming Year
Looking toward 2025, Valentine’s Day looms as the first major opportunity for a profitable holiday season. The occasion has many growers preparing crops and securing orders in anticipation of a high-demand period, although they remain cautiously optimistic about whether consumer spending will rebound.
This year’s IFTF marked a scheduling change, running from Tuesday to Thursday instead of the traditional Wednesday to Friday format. A shift that aligns with broader exhibition trends aimed at accommodating business schedules. While visitor feedback on the adjustment remains to be seen, event organizers are hopeful that the change will foster increased attendance and engagement.
Voices from the Industry
Ms. Janet Basiima, Division Manager of Export Markets Development & Innovation at Rwanda’s National Agricultural Export Board (NAEB), highlighted the event’s significance for emerging markets.
“IFTF 2024 is a fantastic opportunity for Rwanda to establish meaningful connections with buyers worldwide,” she remarked, underscoring the fair’s role in connecting markets and promoting international partnerships.
