In a landmark development for India’s floriculture sector, the first-ever export of Anthurium flowers from Mizoram to Singapore has been successfully facilitated, marking a new chapter in the agricultural export landscape of the North Eastern Region. This achievement, made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Department of Horticulture, Government of Mizoram, highlights the untapped potential of the region in contributing to India’s growing floriculture exports.
The ceremonial flag-off of the first consignment took place on February 26, 2025, in a hybrid (phygital) format. APEDA Chairman Shri Abhishek Dev and Special Secretary of the Department of Horticulture, Government of Mizoram, Smt. Ramdinliani, led the event, alongside officials from APEDA, the Department of Horticulture, Zo Anthurium Growers Cooperative Society, IVC Agrovet Pvt. Ltd., and Veg Pro Singapore Pte. Ltd. This consignment, consisting of 1,024 Anthurium cut flowers weighing 70 kilograms and packed in 50 corrugated boxes, was exported from Aizawl, Mizoram, to Singapore via Kolkata. The flowers were sourced from the Zo Anthurium Growers Cooperative Society and imported by Veg Pro Singapore Pte. Ltd., demonstrating the seamless cooperation between local farmers, exporters, and international buyers.
Anthurium flowers hold significant economic and cultural importance in Mizoram, where their cultivation supports local farmers, including a large number of women, providing a sustainable livelihood. The state also hosts the annual “Anthurium Festival,” a celebration that not only showcases the vibrant beauty of the flower but also attracts tourism, further strengthening the local economy. The successful export of these flowers is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of Mizoram’s farming community, which has worked tirelessly to meet international quality standards.
This milestone follows the success of the International Conclave cum Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) held on December 6, 2024, in Aizawl. Organized by APEDA in collaboration with the Government of Mizoram, the event brought together international buyers from countries such as Singapore, the UAE, Nepal, Jordan, Oman, Azerbaijan, Russia, and Ethiopia, along with domestic exporters. The conclave served as a crucial platform for establishing trade connections and expanding market opportunities for floriculture products from Mizoram, paving the way for this historic shipment.
India’s floriculture sector has been witnessing steady growth, with exports reaching USD 86.62 million in the financial year 2023-2024. The inclusion of Mizoram in the country’s export portfolio is a promising step toward diversifying and expanding India’s footprint in the global floriculture market. The North Eastern Region, rich in biodiversity and home to a variety of high-value horticultural products, holds immense export potential. APEDA’s continued efforts in facilitating international trade, supporting infrastructure, and promoting regional produce will play a crucial role in unlocking this potential and ensuring sustained economic growth for farmers and stakeholders in the region.
As India strengthens its position in the global agricultural market, this first shipment of Anthurium flowers from Mizoram to Singapore stands as a symbol of progress and possibility. It is a reflection of how strategic interventions, government support, and local determination can create new opportunities, empower communities, and open doors to international trade.
