Gulf Importers

30pc of GCC garden imports go to UAE

Some 30 per cent of flowers, plants and trees imported in the GCC area were shipped to the UAE, according to UN Comtrade.

The GCC horticultural industry has been valued at Dh556 million ($151.3 million), making it one of the top markets, while the Netherlands is where most of the horticultural products are sourced. 

The industry’s continuing growth has been attributed to the UAE’s vibrant hospitality, services and landscaping segments, said the report.

Tarek Sibai, project manager, planetfair, said: “The country›s horticulture and landscaping industry, which is worth Dh364 million, continues to demonstrate vibrancy and growth with active trading in the past two years. It also shows 57 per cent growth as compared to 2011 and 2012.

“Other industries are also now looking at opportunities from the horticulture business, like the logistics industry, which has expressed key interest via utilising the transport chain in moving flowers, plants and trees as prime cargo.

Looking to play a key role in the horticulture industry’s continuous growth, the 10th edition of the International Plants Expo Middle East (IPM Dubai) will be held from October 5 to 7 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

It will throw the spotlight on the latest market trends, innovations and breakthroughs in the flower and plants market.

The event will be showcasing eight country pavilions, including China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Germany, Kenya, Mauritius, Sri Lanka and the US, in addition to 96 exhibitors - reflecting a 20 per cent increase from last year.

The highlights of this year’s show will include China’s debut as a country pavilion, key exhibitions, demonstrations and talks on timely industry topics such as plants, technology, floristry, garden features, logistics, plant maintenance and gardening and landscaping.

The show is being organised by planetfair and Messe Essen, with support coming from Dubai Airports Cargo and Logistics.