Kenya’s floriculture industry is demonstrating strong resilience entering 2026, with record exhibitor numbers at the International Floriculture Trade Expo (IFTEX) confirming the country’s position as one of the world’s leading cut flower exporters even as freight costs, geopolitical instability, and supply chain disruptions mount pressure on margins.
IFTEX 2026: Record Participation Reflects Investor Confidence in Kenya Floriculture
The 13th edition of IFTEX, taking place 2–4 June 2026 in Nairobi, will host 210 exhibitors up from 189 in 2025 and the highest in the event’s history. Nearly 20% of that growth comes from first-time growers, signalling active expansion and diversification within Kenya’s cut flower sector. Since post-pandemic recovery began in 2023, exhibitor numbers have risen from 159 to 210, a one-third increase in three years.
HPP International Group CEO Dick van Raamsdonk described IFTEX as “a true barometer for the global flower trade,” adding: “This sector is resilient, confident and forward-looking. IFTEX no longer only showcases flowers it showcases the future of the industry.”
Kenya Cut Flower Export Earnings: USD 845 Million in 2025
Kenya’s floriculture sector remains one of the country’s top foreign exchange earners. According to the Kenya Flower Council (KFC), the industry generated approximately KES 110 billion (USD 845 million) in export earnings in 2025, directly contributing 1.5% to Kenya’s GDP and supporting more than one million livelihoods. Over 60% of the floriculture workforce are women, making the sector a key driver of inclusive economic growth.
Kenya exported horticultural produce worth KES 143.78 billion in 2025, with cut flowers accounting for 62% of total export value, according to the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA). Roses dominate the export mix at approximately 69% of total flower shipments, reaching buyers in 143 countries worldwide.
Kenya Commands 38% of EU Rose Cut Flower Market
Kenya currently holds approximately 38% of the European Union’s rose cut flower import market, according to the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) a competitive position reinforced through strict phytosanitary compliance, digital certification systems, and advanced laboratory infrastructure.
KEPHIS Director of Phytosanitary and Biosecurity Services Dr. Isaac Macharia noted the country is actively pursuing market diversification in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, alongside its dominant EU position.
“Adherence to market requirements is not just a regulatory necessity it is Kenya’s premier competitive advantage,” said Macharia.
Freight Costs and Geopolitical Pressures Creating Critical Risk for Kenya Flower Exporters
Despite strong fundamentals, Kenya’s floriculture sector faces acute operational pressure in 2026. The Kenya Flower Council has flagged a sharp rise in air freight costs from approximately USD 3.10 per kilogram to nearly USD 5.00 per kilogram driven by Middle East geopolitical instability and supply chain disruptions. Logistics now account for up to 60% of export expenses during peak periods.
The industry estimates that approximately USD 4 million in flower exports are at risk every week under current conditions. Fertilizer costs have surged 25% in a matter of weeks, and some farms have reported revenue declines of up to 75% due to shipment delays and perishability losses. If disruption continues without intervention, the KFC projects export losses could exceed USD 15 million per month, with up to 50,000 jobs at risk.
IFTEX 2026: A Strategic Forum for the Future of Sustainable Floriculture
Beyond its role as a global trading platform connecting growers, breeders, exporters, and buyers, IFTEX 2026 will serve as a strategic industry forum addressing sustainability, logistics, compliance, and market diversification — the defining challenges for cut flower exporters in 2026 and beyond.
Kenya Flower Council Membership Engagement and Communications Manager Lina Jamwa positioned Kenya’s ambitions clearly: “Kenya is not simply participating in global floriculture Kenya is leading it. With the right partnerships, supportive policies and strategic investments, Kenya can become the undisputed global leader in sustainable floriculture.”
Ranked among the world’s top specialised cut flower trade fairs, IFTEX has become a critical gateway for Kenya’s flower exporters to access emerging markets in North America, Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.