The cut flower market in Japan is huge and it is expected to grow by 25% by 2010.Cut flowers are sold from various locations such as florists, home centres, supermarkets, convenience stores and more. The increase in Internet sales has also seen a growth in sales to individuals.
Japan imports cut flowers from around the world. Of imported flowers, 90 per cent are traditional varieties such as chrysanthemums, carnations, roses, orchids, and lilies.
The chrysanthemum is one of Japan’s national flowers and regarded as the Imperial Crest.These varieties are most frequently purchased and their market is very competitive. Japanese companies often invest in or have partnerships with international suppliers and control product quality and standards.
Following are the shares of flowers in japan import market :
Chrysanthemums - 37.72%
Orchids - 18.28%
Carnation - 17.7 %
Rose - 10.48%
Lilies - 5.5%
Others - 10.32%
(Source: Japan Customs - Trade statistics)