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Vishwanath Kulkarni

BANGALORE, Feb. 8

EXPORTS of cut flowers are seen registering a near 50 per cent rise ahead of Valentine's Day. Rose exports from Bangalore and Pune put together are expected to touch 13 million stems, valued at $4 million, say sources at South India Floriculture Association.

This surge in exports is primarily due to the demand mainly from the United Kingdom, Australia and the Far-Eastern countries, especially Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia.

Events such as the 50th Anniversary of the Queen ascending the throne in the UK and the Chinese New Year, which have come ahead of Valentine's Day by few days, have resulted in demand for Indian roses. Also the production worldwide, especially in African countries as Kenya and Zimbabwe, major suppliers in the global market, has been affected due to fluctuating weather conditions.

An estimated 10 million rose stems have already been exported from both Bangalore and Pune, said Mr K.S Ramakrishna, of Karuturi Floritech, one of the largest growers. Another 3 million would be exported by Tuesday, when the last shipment leaves the country, he added.

The Australian market has also bounced back this year due to the poor show by Kenya and Zimbabwe, which virtually controlled the market down under. The extended summer has also contributed to the increase in demand, said Mr Ramakrishna.

The direct flights to Europe and Far-East, especially Malaysia from Bangalore has also contributed to increased exports as the quality of flowers have reached the destinations in much better conditions than they used to be. Lufthansa has shipped about 120 tonnes while Malaysian Airlines through 3 special freighters has lifted 84 tonnes. While the volumes have increased prices have dropped by nearly 30 per cent.

While the surge in demand overseas has come as a boon for the growers, the domestic market is also likely to hold firm, said Mr Ramakrishna. However, the demand from Mumbai, the biggest market is subdued on account of the threat by Shiv Sena chief on observing Valentine's Day. Growers are expecting a price of Rs 5 per stem of Red Rose, higher than Rs 3.50-4 which they got last year. But for Shiv Sena's threat we could have easily got Rs 8 per stem, sources added.

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Rose exports up ahead of Valentine's Day

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