The Current State of the Colombian Cut Flower Market
March 27, 2026 A recent USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) report examined the development, current challenges, and future of Colombia’s cut flower industry, with a particular focus on its relationship with the U.S. Colombia has developed into the world’s second-largest flower exporter and dominant supplier to the U.S. over the past 60 years. Here are some highlights from the report:
The U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CTPA)
The CTPA was implemented in 2012 and played a significant role in the industry’s recent growth through the elimination of tariffs and promoting investment and expansion. Between 2012 and 2025, export values tied to the industry nearly doubled, with Colombia’s cut flower industry now a $2.4 billion export sector, with nearly 80% of its product sold in the U.S., accounting for nearly 60% of U.S. flower sales.
Recent U.S. Tariffs on Colombia
Under the second Donald Trump administration, the U.S. imposed a 10% tariff on Colombian flowers in 2025, which added more than $200 million to annual costs. This development has been paired with Colombia increasing its minimum wage and the Colombian peso appreciating against the U.S. dollar, resulting in heavy financial strain from higher production costs and reduced profit margins.
To reduce its dependence on the U.S. market amid trade complications, Colombia has begun expanding its exports to locations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, with the U.K., Japan, and the UAE being prime targets for growth, respectively.
An Evolving Market and Shift to Sustainability
Despite trade complications, demand for cut flowers in the U.S. remains strong. While holidays, such as Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, account for the largest portion of sales, flowers are now increasingly bought for year-round, for everyday use, stabilizing demand throughout the year.
Additionally, the industry is now heavily focusing on sustainability, with one common path being through the Florverde certification program. Although environmental practices are not yet adopted wholesale, sustainability has become a competitive advantage, with customers considering it as a selling point now more than ever.
For additional insights on the Colombian cut flower market, please read the full report prepared by Alvaro Ortega and approved by Andre Bradley here.
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