Florida, USA – The Association of Floral Importers of Florida (AFIF) is currently engaged in a pivotal effort to secure the renewal of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a process that has been both protracted and demanding. This progress has been made possible through the unwavering support and contributions of both members and non-members, a testament to the importance of the cause. However, AFIF emphasizes that the battle is far from over.
For the next three weeks, AFIF is intensively active in Washington, D.C., participating in crucial meetings and hearings to advocate for the reinstatement of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which expired on December 31, 2020. The expiration of GSP has had a significant impact on the flower industry, particularly in relation to flowers imported from Ecuador, as they were previously covered by GSP, entailing the imposition of substantial duties at the U.S. border upon arrival. In the years 2021-2023, more than $80 million in duties have been levied on imported flowers due to the absence of GSP benefits.
AFIF achieved a significant milestone on October 1, 2020, when roses were included in the GSP, marking a substantial victory for the flower industry. Regrettably, the GSP program lapsed a few months later. The inclusion of roses within the GSP framework brought the volume and value of Ecuadorian roses into sharper focus, as they could now benefit from duty-free status. Nevertheless, roses from Ecuador are currently surpassing the established limits under GSP, necessitating an adjustment to the Competitive Need Limit (CNL) to enable roses to remain in the program without incurring duties.
Recognizing the paramount importance of this issue for flower importers, AFIF has taken the initiative to collaborate with legal and lobbying experts to push for GSP reinstatement, secure refunds for previously paid duties, and advocate for an increase in the CNL. Over the past two years, AFIF has diligently engaged with members of Congress to garner support for the GSP renewal and CNL adjustment.
In January 2023, the appointment of a new Ways & Means Chairman, Jason Smith from Missouri, presented an opportunity for AFIF to advance its cause. AFIF organized a meeting in South Florida, during which Chairman Smith gained insights into the flower industry, AFIF’s mission, and the far-reaching implications of imported flowers on all 50 states in the U.S. Following this informative session, Chairman Smith announced his intention to visit Ecuador, and AFIF facilitated visits to a flower farm for him and other members of the Congressional Delegation (CODEL).
Over the next three weeks, AFIF’s agenda includes meetings with congressional members and committees, culminating in testimony at a hearing dedicated to the GSP. Speaking at such a hearing is a distinguished opportunity, providing Committee members and other legislators with firsthand insights into the urgent need for GSP renewal and CNL adjustment in the context of the flower industry.
As AFIF continues its unwavering efforts, the broader horticultural community watches with anticipation, recognizing the potential ramifications of a renewed GSP and the positive impact it can have on the flower import sector.