Dutch cut flower and plant exports reached €7.1 billion in 2024, a rise of 4% on 2023, according to new figures from the sector association VGB.

Cut flower sales were up 7% at €4.4 billion, while plant sales were unchanged at €2.6 billion.

“After two years of decline we are now growing again, but we still face considerable challenges,” said VGB director Matthijs Mesken. In 2023, plant sales fell 2% and cut flowers 3%.

The sector has been hit by mounting wage, inspection, transport, and energy costs. “We cannot pass all these costs on to clients, so the entire chain is coming under pressure,” he said.

Germany remains the top destination for Dutch flowers and plants, importing €1.7 billion worth. Exports to Britain were up 9% and to Poland 18%, but sales to France, in third place in the ranking, fell 6%, the VGB said.

More challenges face the sector in 2025, with geopolitical developments, efforts to curb labour migration, and transport problems and costs set to remain dominant themes, the organisation said.