Suncheon, Republic of Korea, August 23, 2023 – The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) is set to provide a unique glimpse into the realm of Korean floriculture during its Horticultural Industry Conference, scheduled for September 19th. This illuminating session is a highlight of the AIPH 75th Annual Congress, taking place in Suncheon, Republic of Korea, from September 17th to 21st. The event is endorsed by Headline Sponsor Biblo and coincides with the 2023 Suncheonman International Garden Expo.
AIPH: Nurturing Horticulture for Over Seven Decades
Founded in 1948, the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has been a steadfast supporter of ornamental horticulture, witnessing its transformative journey through the years. The comprehensive itinerary of the 75th AIPH Annual Congress mirrors AIPH’s unwavering dedication to the industry. Attendees can anticipate a platform for learning, networking, and drawing inspiration from passionate individuals spearheading the industry’s advancement.
Exploring Korean Floriculture’s Evolution
Sponsored by Royal FloraHolland and MPS, the Horticultural Industry Conference is poised to delve into the evolution and trajectory of the floriculture industry in the Republic of Korea. This exploration comes as the nation commemorates 75 years of independence, celebrating a remarkable metamorphosis from an agrarian economy in 1948 to a technologically advanced nation boasting a GDP of €1.65 trillion in 2019, ranking it as the 12th largest global economy.
Navigating Challenges in Korean Ornamental Horticulture
Korean ornamental horticulture faces unique challenges due to its topography, with just 14.6 percent of the nation’s land suitable for agricultural pursuits. Extreme climatic conditions, typified by typhoons following monsoons during hot summers, further contribute to the complexity. Recent data highlighted in FloraCulture International indicates that approximately 4,936 hectares are allocated to ornamental horticulture. The figures for 2021 disclosed an ornamental horticulture value of €442 million in 2017, with cut flowers accounting for €143 million, cultivated across 1,334 hectares. Meanwhile, potted plants, trees, and shrubs thrived over 3,622 hectares. The total ornamental acreage experienced a 20% reduction to 5,000 hectares in 2017.
Korea Florist Association: A Vital Industry Catalyst
As a key AIPH member, the Korea Florist Association (KFA) assumes a pivotal role in shaping ornamental horticulture in the Republic of Korea. KFA’s mission centers on empowering members to navigate profitable business operations and overcome growth impediments. By supporting governmental initiatives and advocating long-term strategies involving infrastructure, logistics, cold chain advancements, export promotion, and enhanced farm business income, KFA has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the flower sector.
Insightful Perspectives from Industry Leaders
Distinguished speakers from the Republic of Korea will contribute their expertise and insights into the nation’s flourishing floriculture sector. Dr. Park Kihwan from the Korean Rural Economic Institute, Mr. Lim Yuktaek, President of KFA and KOFLAS (Korea Federation of Flower-Related Associations), and Mr. Song Junho, Chief of Agriculture Cooperation Youngho, are among the eminent figures slated to share their insights. Additionally, a representative from the Embassy of the Netherlands will expound upon trading prospects.
Embracing Environmental Sustainability
The AIPH Horticultural Industry Conference is not only an avenue for knowledge exchange but also a platform to discuss environmental sustainability. Attendees will gain insights into emerging processes designed to enhance their practices. Royal FloraHolland’s presentation on the new FloriPEFCR standard, which offers a uniform environmental footprinting methodology for the sector, is anticipated. MPS will demonstrate its HortiFootprint Calculator, facilitating the calculation of CO2 footprints based on the FloriPEFCR standard.
As the global horticultural community converges in Suncheon, the AIPH 75th Annual Congress promises to be a celebration of progress, innovation, and resilience, accentuated by the spotlight on Korean floriculture’s vibrant journey.