Turkey’s flower exports are gaining momentum ahead of Valentine’s Day, with shipments reaching more than 30 countries and export revenues expected to exceed $10 million.
İsmail Yılmaz, Chairman of the Ornamental Plants and Products Exporters’ Association, said shipments for February 14 are continuing at full pace. “We expect our exports to surpass $10 million during this period,” Yılmaz said.
A Valentine’s Day rush is being felt in greenhouses and auction houses in Antalya, which accounts for a significant share of Turkey’s cut flower production. Flowers collected from greenhouses—particularly carnations and red-colored varieties—are being packaged and prepared for lovers around the world.
Flowers destined for international markets have already been loaded onto trucks and dispatched, while preparations for the domestic market are also ongoing.
Yılmaz noted that Valentine’s Day is one of the most important periods for the sector. “Red colors stand out during this season, and there is strong demand for all red flowers. Our shipments are expected to continue until February 7–8. If demand persists after that, we will switch to air cargo transportation,” he said.
He also emphasized that flower orders have increased compared to last year. According to Yılmaz, Europe remains the primary export destination, with shipments going to nearly all European countries. “However, Europe is not our only market. We will be exporting flowers to more than 30 countries worldwide,” he added.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök