• Analysis and Studies
• Lilies: import and export

Lilies are considered one of the most graceful flowers, with each color holding a unique meaning that conveys distinct emotions and messages. White lilies symbolize purity, innocence, and sympathy, making them suitable for weddings and funerals; red lilies represent passion, love, and courage, while pink lilies stand for prosperity, admiration, and femininity; yellow lilies denote joy, happiness, and gratitude, ideal for expressing friendship and thankfulness; orange lilies signify confidence, pride, and enthusiasm. Purple lilies are associated with royalty, success, and mystery, and blue lilies embody tranquility, peace, and inspiration. The various colors give lilies a versatile significance, suitable for many occasions and feelings.

Additionally, the meaning of lilies can change based on their type: for instance, Asiatic lilies represent wealth and prosperity, Oriental lilies symbolize rebirth and Calla lilies are associated with elegance and sophistication.

In 2022, lilies were the world's 3878th most traded product, with a total trade of $238M, and between 2021 and 2022 their exports decreased by -5.83%, from $252M to $238M.

In 2022 the country which exported lilies the most was the Netherlands with a trade of $150M, ahead of Costa Rica ($29M), Colombia ($20.5M), China ($11.1M), and Ecuador ($9.12M). Whereas the most significant importer was United Kingdom with a trade of $80.1M, followed by United States ($62.8M), Germany ($14M), France ($9.32M), and Russia ($9.14M).

The data show clear regional divisions in the global lily trade. Europe and North America dominate demand, with the Netherlands having a wide European reach, while Latin American exporters mainly target North America.

China's unique export strategy highlights different logistical and market access approaches worldwide. These divisions underscore the importance of geographic proximity, trade relationships, and market demand in shaping global trade patterns.

1. Netherlands (63.2%): 52.8% United Kingdom, 9.34% Germany, 5.95% France, 5.22% Ireland, 4.87% Russia, 2.25% Switzerland, 1.18% United Arab Emirates. 0.82% United States
2. Costa Rica (12.2%): 97.6% United States, 0.65% Canada
3. Colombia (8.61%): 94.4% United States, 3.9% Canada, 0.54% United Kingdom, 0.13% France
4. China (4.69%): 46.2% Thailand, 17.1% Burma, 12.8% Philippines, 11.7% Vietnam
5. Ecuador (3.84%): 83.7% United States, 4.73% Canada, 4.48% Uruguay, 3.12% Colombia

 The data show the Netherlands leading the European market with an efficient production and distribution network. In contrast, the United States shows a diversified import strategy, with multiple Latin American countries being sources, highlighting its market strength and risk management approach.

Russia, despite relying heavily on Dutch imports, underscores a pragmatic regional diversification, by sourcing from nearby Baltic states. These patterns reflect the interplay of regional dependencies, trade efficiencies, and strategic diversification in the global market of lilies.

1. United Kingdom (33.7%): 99% Netherlands, 0.55% Spain
2. United States (26.4%): 45% Costa Rica, 30.7% Colombia, 12.2% Ecuador, 5.57% Mexico, 1.95% Netherlands
3. Germany (5.91%): 99.8% Netherlands
4. France (3.92%): 95.7% Netherlands, 1.22% Spain, 1.07% Italy
5. Russia (3.85%): 80% Netherlands, 11.4% Latvia, 7.44% Lithuania

Between 2021 and 2022, the fastest growing exporter was Colombia with an increase of $5M, followed by China ($4.76M), Costa Rica ($3.05M), Latvia ($829k), and Ecuador ($621k).

1. Colombia: from $15.5M to $20.5M
2. China: from $6.38M to $11.1M
3. Costa Rica: from $25.9M to $29M
4. Latvia: from $273k to $1.1M
5. Ecuador: from $8.5M to $9.12M

Whereas the country which saw a fastest growth in imports was the United States with an increase of $9.63M, ahead of Thailand ($2.26M), Vietnam ($1.24M), Burma ($1.11M), and Kuwait ($593k).

1. United States: from $53.2M to $62.8M
2. Thailand: from $2.92M to $5.18M
3. Vietnam: from $75.8k to $1.31M
4. Burma: from $796k to $1.91M
5. Kuwait: from $161k to $754k

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