According to the Bureau of National Statistics, Kazakhstani farmers harvested 40.3 million flowers in 2024, a 3.7-fold increase compared to 2023. This growth was driven by a 12.8% expansion in greenhouse areas and the introduction of government subsidies, reports Energyprom.
The greenhouse industry played a key role in this growth. In 2024, farmers growing flowers in controlled environments harvested 33.4 million flowers, a 5.2-fold increase compared to 2023. This was partly due to government subsidies provided to greenhouse businesses.
Despite increased domestic production, Kazakhstan's flower market remains heavily dependent on imports. In 2024, the country imported 202.2 million flowers of six major varieties — roses, carnations, orchids, chrysanthemums, lilies, and gladioli — a 47.2% increase compared to 2023.
Roses remain the most imported flowers, with 159.2 million flowers (+42%) shipped in 2024, totaling $61 million. Chrysanthemums ranked second, with imports rising 56.4% to 24.7 million flowers, worth $12.3 million.
In 2024, Kazakhstan spent $93.6 million on flower imports, a 52.8% increase from 2023.
Top Flower Suppliers to Kazakhstan
- Ecuador – the leading supplier, accounting for 54.3% of imports (6,500 tons worth $50.8 million). The country mainly exports roses and lilies.
- Netherlands – supplied $17.6 million worth of flowers, primarily chrysanthemums.
- Kenya – ranked third, exporting mainly roses, with smaller volumes of carnations and lilies.
China’s Growing Role
China was the biggest surprise of 2024 in the flower import market. Its share in Kazakhstan grew from 1% to 8%, with import volumes rising 12.2 times. The main reason for China's success was its competitive pricing, as the average price per ton of Chinese flowers was significantly lower than that of other suppliers.
Flower Prices in Kazakhstan
In 2024, flower prices fluctuated. At the beginning of the year, retail prices increased by 8%, then slowed to 2.6% by May, before rising again to 5–6% in autumn. In January 2025, flower prices increased by another 6.6%.
The most expensive roses in 2024 were sold in the Abai region at 1,300 KZT per flower, while the national average price was 938 KZT. The cheapest roses were found in Shymkent (568 KZT) and West Kazakhstan Region (648 KZT).
Where to Learn More About the Flower Market?
Visit the Flora Expo Astana, the International Flower and Landscaping Exhibition, from April 8–10 to learn more about the industry. More details can be found at flora-expo.kz.