US: What do the tariffs mean for wholesale flower pricing?

From mid-March through the end of October, approximately 70% of the flowers sourced by Florabundance are American-grown. "That means our clients benefit from fresher product, reduced international shipping risks, and insulation from shifting global trade policies."

Under the USMCA trade agreement, qualifying goods from Canada and Mexico — including flowers and foliage — will continue to be imported tariff-free for now. These new tariffs also apply to plant cuttings and starter materials, many of which come from Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Kenya — essential sources for U.S. flower growers.

Below is a list of the floral industry's biggest trading partners for fresh cut flowers, foliage, as well as plant cuttings used by growers.© U.S. Census Bureau and White House

Supplies and hardgoods also impacted
Hardgoods, including glassware, plastic containers, floral foam, and design tools, have experienced significant increases in import rates from several countries. Imports from China now account for a total increase of 54%, comprising 34% new tariffs and 20% existing ones. India has seen a 27% increase, Taiwan 32%, and Vietnam 46%.

These added costs may affect both wholesalers and florists as the season progresses.

Grower support and possible negotiations ahead
Florabundance says: "Some of our trusted growers in South America are helping to absorb part of the cost increases tied to the new tariffs, working with us to keep pricing as stable as possible for our customers. Their support speaks to the strength of our global partnerships.

In addition, there are more than fifty countries affected by these tariffs that may negotiate trade terms with the U.S. administration. As diplomatic conversations evolve, there is hope that some tariffs may be revised or eliminated in the future.

Florabundance will continue to monitor the situation and keep our customers informed with real-time updates."

The Society of American Florists (SAF) is actively collaborating with the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Trade Representative, and the National Economic Council to address critical issues impacting the floral industry. Their mission is to emphasize the industry's reliance on fresh imported products, which constitute 85% of U.S. consumption, and to highlight the adverse effects of tariffs on small businesses that operate on tight margins. Additionally, SAF is working to address the tariffs imposed on countries like Colombia, Chile, and Peru, where the U.S. maintains a trade surplus, aiming to mitigate the economic challenges these tariffs create for the floral sector.