News » 29.04.2025 - US tariffs - Ethiopia feels the thorns

President Donald Trump's decision to impose new tariffs has prompted U.S. customs agents to begin collecting duties on goods from dozens of major trading partners, with a baseline rate of 10pc and higher levies on certain products. Among the industries feeling the effects is floriculture, a global business known for time-sensitive supply chains. While the measure targets a wide swath of imports, it places a particular spotlight on the Ethiopian flower industry, which has spent years expanding its global reach.

The U.S. flower market depends heavily on imports to meet an estimated daily demand of around 10 million stems. Domestic growers supply only about 20pc of that total, leaving foreign producers to fill the gap. Roses, summer flowers, and orchids dominate the market, especially around holidays such as Valentine's Day and Mother's Day.

Eager to tap into America's year-round consumption, Ethiopia has made steady inroads. Official data from the Ethiopian Customs Commission and various industry reports indicate the United States is now sixth among the top 10 destinations for Ethiopian flowers. In the four years beginning in 2020, exports to the U.S. grew at an average annual rate of 25pc, totaling roughly 7,977mts and generating about 45 million dollars. Seven foreign-owned farms supply most of these blooms, focusing on roses, summer flowers, and rooted and unrooted cuttings.

Despite this progress, Ethiopia's overall share of the U.S. flower market remains modest, at less than three percent. Only about 11pc of Ethiopian flower farms have strong American ties, leaving the industry vulnerable to shifts in trade policy. Trump's tariffs include a 10pc import duty on Ethiopian flowers, a seemingly small rate that can still reshape supply patterns in a field where price and freshness matter.
 

 

Source: www.floradlaily.com

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