AIPH Spring Meeting 2025 Offers Industry Insights into Ornamental Horticulture in Asia

On the second day of the AIPH Spring Meeting, industry leaders from across Asia convened at the Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort to discuss the latest developments in ornamental horticulture. Following the success of the Green City Conference on the morning of 11 February and the announcement of the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026 launch, the AIPH Industry Conference provided a platform for experts to share insights into emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities within the region.

The conference featured presentations from representatives of Thailand, China, Vietnam, and Indonesia, each offering unique perspectives on the industry’s future. The discussions underscored Asia’s growing significance in the global ornamental plant market, driven by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and a heightened focus on sustainability.

Among the key speakers was Kasan Chavanapanit, Managing Director of G.G.D. Trading (Thailand) Co., Ltd. is one of Thailand’s leading wholesale orchid growers and exporters. His presentation offered a valuable perspective from both a grower and an exporter, highlighting Thailand’s role in global horticulture. He showcased the wide variety of orchids cultivated at his farms, including Dendrobium, Mokara, Vanda, and Oncidium, as well as other tropical plants, greenery, and foliage. Kasan also discussed the challenges facing Thai orchid growers, including fluctuating market demands, climate conditions, and export logistics. His insights into the production and export landscape provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the opportunities and obstacles within Thailand’s horticultural sector.

Lin Qiaoling, Vice President of the Beijing Flower Association and Secretary-General of the Retail Trade Branch of the China Flower Association, presented on ‘Beijing Green Garden Group and the Promising Future of the Chinese Flower Retail Market.’ She introduced Beijing Green Garden Group, a national leader in floral and landscape engineering known for its innovative contributions to urban ecological development. Lin provided an overview of China’s expanding flower retail market, which is projected to report 220 billion yuan in 2024. She highlighted key trends, including the rapid rise of e-commerce as the dominant sales channel, shifting consumer demographics, and the increasing demand for personalised and sustainable floral products. The integration of online and offline retail experiences, digital marketing expansion, and the growing preference for eco-friendly flowers were identified as major forces shaping the future of China’s floriculture industry.

Nguyen Ngoc Thanh, Vice President of the Dalat Flower Association and Director of BF Dalat followed with an in-depth look at the flower industry in Lam Dong, Vietnam. His presentation traced the history of flower production in Da Lat, which has grown to account for 50% of Vietnam’s total flower output. He outlined the region’s strengths, including its favourable climate, advanced greenhouse technologies, and expanding export market. Thanh also reflected on the pivotal role of Dutch technology in enhancing Vietnam’s horticultural sector, particularly in greenhouse development, climate control, and automated irrigation. However, he also highlighted key challenges, such as limited post-harvest infrastructure, fragmented land holdings, and the need for improved breeding programs to meet international standards. His insights reinforced the significant potential for Vietnam’s floriculture industry, provided that strategic investments and policy support continue to evolve.

From Indonesia, Sean William Salim, content creator and founder of the YouTube channel Onlyplants, explored Indonesia’s horticultural industry from an influencer’s perspective. Initially concerned about addressing an audience of professional growers, he quickly endeared himself by providing a fresh and engaging take on the industry. His presentation proved valuable in broadening the international audience’s understanding of Indonesia’s horticultural landscape. He noted that while Indonesia has the perfect climate for growing a diverse range of ornamental plants, awareness of the sector’s potential remains limited compared to other Asian countries. He highlighted the gap in understanding consumer demands but expressed optimism that increased exposure and education could unlock new opportunities for Indonesian growers.

As the conference unfolded, discussions revolved around the dynamic nature of the Asian horticultural market, the increasing role of technology in plant production and distribution, and the importance of sustainable practices in ensuring the sector’s long-term growth. With Asia emerging as a key player in global ornamental horticulture, the insights shared at the AIPH Industry Conference reinforced the importance of international collaboration and innovation.

As the AIPH Spring Meeting 2025 progresses, delegates will embark on a series of tours across Thailand on 12 (today) and 13 February. These excursions are designed to showcase the nation’s rich horticultural heritage and innovative practices. You can follow us on the AIPH social media pages on LinkedIn and Instagram.

On 12 February, participants will visit key green city sites in the Chiang Rai area, including the Doi Tung Development Project, the Mae Fah Luang Garden, and Mae Fah Luang University. These initiatives illustrate how urban greening can address common city challenges, such as health, social cohesion, and sustainability.

The following day, 13 February, the itinerary includes visits to two ornamental producers: Dao Jamratsang Garden, known for its orchid cultivation, and Kaset 32 Farm, which specialises in potted plants like anthurium, cyclamen, begonia, alocasia, calathea, and ferns. Afterwards, delegates will explore cultural sites in the Chiang Rai region, including Baan Dam (Black House Museum), which showcases a diverse collection of artwork across 40 buildings, and Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), renowned for its unique architectural design.

The AIPH Spring Meeting 2025 continues to serve as a vital forum for the global horticultural community, fostering knowledge exchange and strategic discussions that shape the future of the industry.

Recordings from the Industry Conference will be made available in the coming weeks, providing access to key discussions and presentations for those who could not attend in person from the AIPH Spring Meeting 2025 events page.

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