By Yordanos Tadesse – The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association says it is set to host the 10th edition of the Hortiflora expo, in the capital, Addis Ababa.
Reports show that Ethiopia is among the top global producer of cut flowers, generating over $500–$600 million USD annually, making it Africa’s second-largest exporter. Horticulture is the second largest foreign exchange earner for the national economy after coffee within the agricultural sector. The sub sector generated export revenue of 564.89 million US dollars in the previous budget year, with flowers accounting for 80% of the earnings. Given numerous policy, regulation, and directive reforms, the export of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and hybrid seeds is expected to boom.
The expo will be held from March 24 to 26 at the Addis International convention center, according to Mr. Tewodros Zewdie, Executive Director of the Ethiopian Horticultural Producer Exporters Association.
The Executive Director noted that more than 150 local and international exhibitors from over 50 countries will participate. The upcoming Expo brings together producers, exporters, seed suppliers, buyers, financial service institutions, technology and logistics providers, policymakers, industry professionals, academicians, and researchers from different parts of the world, as well as regional investment, finance, and other institutions.
The three-day Expo provides unmatched networking and business opportunities as it facilitates B2B, B2C, and B2G platforms while featuring high level forums for insightful discussions on global market trends, technology, and logistics, among other relevant issues.
Side discussions will cover specific topics including consumer trends and food safety, sustainable finance, sea freight, AI and sustainability, market trends in fruits and vegetables, circular solutions, and gender and sustainability.
The Executive Director the Association stated that this year’s Hortiflora Expo is going to be a unique experience as it will converge a multitude of local and international value and supply chain actors in horticulture at the Addis International Convention Center. All those interested in the horticulture industry are cordially invited to visit the Expo.
