Dutch flower and plant exports decline by 2 per cent in the first three quarters of 2022

Pretty in pink: Chrysanthemum ‘Maipo’.

Figures published by the Dutch Association of Wholesalers (VGB) and market analyst Floridata highlight the struggles that Dutch flower and plant exporters face due to the sharply rising gas and electricity prices.

Total exporter revenues have dropped in the first three quarters of 2022, with Dutch global flower and plant exports declining by 2 per cent to €5.6 billion.

In terms of the total value of exports, cut flowers fared better than plants. After two years of postponed and cancelled weddings and events, this industry segment continues to rebound.

In the three quarters of 2022, flower exports continued to grow, rising 1 per cent to €3.4 billion. By contrast, the export of plants contracted by 5 per cent to €2.2 billion.

In a comment on the figures, VGB’s chief executive Matthijs Mesken said the industry’s performance declined. “Shipments to our major export destinations Germany, the UK and France are down. Poland and Italy only show meager growth. The skyrocketing gas and electricity prices have a significant impact on our industry, forcing growers to make difficult decisions about whether to plant less or leave the greenhouse empty altogether. This situation causes pressure on the availability and variety of ornamentals. At the trader’s level the situation is also dire with companies having to pay significantly more for gas and electrity. Which is why VGB in collaboration with several other industry bodies urges the Dutch government to help SME’s with an energy-aide package. It’s important that our businesses keep perspective in this crisis. Equally important is that consumers can continue to enjoy our quality flowers and plants.”

Watch the FloraFlits video for more information on the performance of Dutch flower and plant exporters over the first three quarters of 2022. FloraFlits is a production of VGB and Floridata.