Bucharest, Romania – September 2023
The Agriculture Team at the Netherlands Embassy in Bucharest has commissioned an update to a market study originally presented in 2019, shedding light on the evolving landscape of Romania’s ornamental plants and cut flowers sector. By analyzing comparative data from 2020 and 2021, this updated study uncovers promising opportunities within the Romanian market for ornamental plants and cut flowers.
The executive summary of the study underscores that local production in this sector remains relatively modest, concentrated mainly in specific regions across the country. Although Romania’s export figures have been restrained, the import of cut flowers and ornamental plants has shown a consistent upward trend in recent years. This surge in imports signifies a growing demand for these botanical varieties, a demand that domestic production currently struggles to meet.
Dutch Dominance:
One noteworthy aspect of the study is the continued dominance of the Netherlands as the primary supplier of ornamental plants and cut flowers to Romania. In 2021 alone, imports from the Netherlands accounted for the highest market value in Romania, totaling approximately 40 million euros.
The report also highlights that public sector entities, much like in 2015, continue to be the primary consumers of ornamental flora in Romania. The country’s efforts to expand and maintain green spaces across its landscape have been ongoing since 2007. However, achieving optimal green space per capita in many urban areas remains a challenge. This is reflected in the inclusion of dedicated funding measures for green infrastructure in each Regional Development Plan for the period 2021-2027. The potential for progress in this regard is significant. Challenges associated with implementing innovative projects in this sector, including issues like equipment quality, training, and expertise, also present opportunities for engagement at various levels. These opportunities encompass equipment exchange, educational initiatives, and consultancy services.
Funding Opportunities:
Moreover, the study reveals a range of funding avenues available for green projects. These funding options are accessible to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), the research and development sector, as well as industrial and agricultural entities. The spectrum of financing options includes comprehensive project implementation and initiatives aimed at raising public awareness.
The Netherlands has firmly established itself as a market leader in ornamental and cut flower imports, driven by its reputation for innovation in the sector. With a cultural shift increasingly valuing urban green spaces, coupled with diverse financing prospects and past successful collaborations with foreign partners, Romania emerges as an enticing and fertile ground for Dutch enterprises looking to expand. The overarching goal of this report is to inspire those interested in bolstering their presence in Romania, positioning them at the forefront of a new era of growth within the ornamental sector.