With advancements in cultivation techniques and improved quality, more fresh-cut flowers from Yunnan are being exported globally. According to Kunming Customs statistics, in the first two months of 2025, Yunnan exported fresh-cut flowers worth 190 million RMB, marking a 52.3% year-on-year increase. In the following article, Robin de Vos, General Manager of Holex China, shares his insights on the Yunnan flower market.
As one of the leading global traders, Holex has been active in China for many years. “From 2018 to 2023—a golden period for imported flowers—our business grew steadily. However, since 2024, exports of Yunnan’s fresh-cut flowers have surged. This prompted us to open an office in Kunming, and I relocated here from Shanghai last year,” says de Vos.
“Beyond classic colors, the growing export volume now includes more diverse hues and varieties. While traditional Southeast Asian markets continue to show steady growth, exports to the Middle East, Russia, Kazakhstan, and other regions have risen significantly,” he added.
“International buyers are increasingly visible at Dounan Flower Market, seeking products directly. However, language and cultural barriers remain challenges—this is where Holex’s strengths lie. Our local Kunming office allows us to inspect flower quality firsthand and communicate effectively with suppliers. While Yunnan’s flower quality has improved remarkably, consistency can still fluctuate, requiring rigorous checks. Additionally, leveraging Dutch Flower Group’s global network, we connect Yunnan growers with international traders and wholesalers more efficiently. A reliable partner is key to succeeding in this business.”
“Flowers are highly perishable during transit, making proper post-harvest handling and cold chain logistics critical. We also hope Kunming Changshui Airport will expand international flights to major global destinations, which would significantly bolster cold chain efficiency.”
For more information:
Robin de Vos
GM Holex Kunming
[email protected]
www.holex.com
