Around 300 million flowers from Da Lat are exported to markets such as Japan, South Korea and China every year, but experts say that more active networks among growers and buyers could help the industry reach its full potential.

Da Lat has 9,000 hectares devoted to growing flowers, with many farmers using glasshouses which have increased output and profits, up to VND5 billion (US$220,000) per ha annually.

According to Lam Dong Province’s People’s Committee, flower exports from the city saw major growth in the last three years, and exports are forecast to rise by 15 per cent over the next five years.

However, only around 10 per cent of Da Lat flowers are exported. To save money, many farmers in the city are growing flowers that are not officially licensed. This makes them more difficult to export.

The lack of licensing is a major deterrent to foreign business partners, according to the Da Lat Flower Association.

In addition, Da Lat flowers have to be shipped to HCM City before they can be transported to foreign markets. Most flower businesses have small orders and cannot afford direct transportation.

Nguyen Phuc Huy, director of the Florian Co.Ltd, a trader of agricultural products, said that if flowers were transported directly from Da Lat, expenses would fall, which would enhance their competitiveness in foreign markets.

Also, many Da Lat farmers have not networked with foreign businesses since most foreign markets set high standards for flower quality and the farmers are afraid that their products would not meet the standards.

To satisfy the city’s goal of increasing flower exports by 20 per cent of the city’s annual output by 2020, the Da Lat Flower Association is importing licensed flower seeds that are popular in foreign markets.

Farmers have also been urged to work closely with export companies and to form co-operatives so they can fulfill bigger orders. – VNS