The third edition of Expo Flor Ecuador kicked off yesterday, Oct. 8, at the Metropolitan Convention Center in Quito. The exhibition floor with 126 exhibitors opened its doors after the traditional opening ceremony highlighted the opportunities, challenges and potential of the Ecuadorian floriculture sector. Our editor is present to discover all the news, facts, and innovations and, of course, to take our traditional photo report.
Alejandro Martinez during the Opening Ceremony
Floriculture in Ecuador
During the opening ceremony, several speakers gave an impression and information about Ecuador's floriculture sector. They for instance mentioned that Ecuador is the third largest flower producer in the world with 86 export destinations. And that the sector represents $1 billion a year, providing 53,000 direct and 55,000 indirect jobs. Although growers, and the sector in general, are increasingly expanding their product range, the rose is still the main product of which 300 varieties are currently being produced in this country.
Bigger, Brighter, Bolder
After the opening ceremony, one could enter the show floor, where the large booths and the explosion of colors are catching the eye. And this fits well with this year's theme, which is 'Bigger, Brighter, Bolder'. In addition to the many innovations and new varieties on display, new collaborations, such as that of Jetfresh and Vip Roses, as well as sustainability and new branding of some companies stand out. Noteworthy is the use of AI which is not only used in the booths.
126 exhibitors
The expo is organized every other year by the Ecuadorian flower export organization Expoflores and had its first in 2018. This year the fair has 126 exhibitors, the majority (75%) of whom are growers and 93% of the participating farms are Flor Ecuador certified. The fair lasts for three days, which means it will last until October 10. Monday, October 14, our photo report will be published.