The trade mission focuses on promoting proteas and roses, varieties not grown in China due to its climate. Canarian producers traveled to the Kunming region, a significant global wholesale and auction hub for flowers.
The Dounan market recorded a transaction volume of 14.18 billion stems in 2024, valued at 11.57 billion yuan (approximately 1.5 billion euros). It is estimated that seven out of every ten freshly cut flowers in China originate from this market, which exports to over 50 countries and regions.
The protea sector in the Canary Islands, though seasonal, leads the islands' cut flower exports to the EU (70% in the 2023-24 campaign) and Asia (30%), with the latter showing the greatest growth potential.
Rose production in Gran Canaria has gained prominence, with a trial of 16,000 plants and over 60 varieties already yielding their first harvests. This cultivation is consolidating for future exports, supported by De Ruiter's research in warm climates.
The visit to Kunming allows Canarian producers to meet established and potential clients, and to learn from local growers with similar varieties, benefiting from De Ruiter's two-year head start in plantations in the region.
