Washington, D.C., 14 February 2024 – This Valentine's Day, the halls of the United States Capitol bloom with the vibrant colours and exquisite fragrance of Colombian flowers, an initiative led by the Embassy of Colombia in the U.S., Asocolflores, and key industry partners. Designed to underscore the significance of Colombia's floriculture sector in bilateral trade, the initiative sees over 4,000 freshly harvested roses, hydrangeas, and other floral varieties—cut in Colombia just a week ago—adorn the offices of all 535 U.S. lawmakers throughout February.
Colombia remains the unrivalled leader in supplying flowers to the U.S. market, with 80% of Valentine's blooms sold across the country originating from Colombia. Beyond adorning Congress, these flowers brighten millions of American homes, signifying a trade relationship rooted in excellence and shared prosperity. With over 1,600 floral varieties spanning 60 species, Colombia's flower industry is a benchmark for quality, innovation, and resilience, consistently delivering the finest blooms through one of the most sophisticated and efficient supply chains in global agriculture.
"Floriculture is a cornerstone of the trade partnership between Colombia and the United States. More than an economic exchange, it represents the deep ties between our societies. Every Colombian flower that reaches the U.S. embodies the dedication of thousands of families and our commitment to excellence and the high standards the American market values," remarked Daniel García-Peña, Ambassador of Colombia to the United States.
The impact of Colombia's floral industry extends well beyond its economic contribution. More than 200,000 Colombians directly and indirectly work in floriculture, with women comprising 60% of its workforce—half of whom are heads of household. The sector accounts for 28% of Colombia's formal agricultural employment and 70% of its female workforce in the industry. In the United States, Colombian flowers fuel entire communities, supporting over 125,000 jobs across florists, distributors, and the wider floral supply chain.
The presence of Colombian flowers in the U.S. Congress is more than a gesture; it reflects the strength of a decades-long trade partnership and the far-reaching benefits of a sector built on innovation, high-quality, and logistical excellence.
This Valentine's Day, Colombia's floriculture industry once again proves to be not just a global leader in beauty and quality, but also a vital bridge strengthening the commercial and cultural ties between Colombia and the United States—an enduring relationship that continues to flourish.