The ornamental plants and cut flower sector in Turkey’s southern province of Antalya have embarked on the shipment of 75 million cut flowers, predominantly carnations, and 4 million Christmas wreaths to approximately 30 European countries and Russia, marking the onset of Christmas and New Year celebrations this year.
Starting from December 24th, Turkish flowers are once again set to embellish European countries and Russia for the festive holiday season.
Ismail Yilmaz, President of the Central Anatolian Ornamental Plants and Products Exporters’ Association, reported that exports had already reached approximately $121 million by the end of October 2023.
Highlighting the significance of Christmas for Christians, Yilmaz emphasized the tradition of sending millions of flower branches from Antalya to European countries each year. He expressed that this year’s Christmas and New Year flower export has commenced, targeting nearly 30 European nations and Russia. Anticipating an export volume of $16-20 million for this New Year’s Eve, the shipment includes 75 million carnation stems and around 4 million wreaths.
Carnations in high demand, particularly in red, are sought-after for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Other popular colors include white, purple, purple-white dual-color, and burgundy, serving various decorative purposes.
Yilmaz underlined the significance of Christmas for the cut flower sector in Turkey, characterizing it as one of the most crucial periods for the industry.
In a separate initiative, a company with a 23-year history of exporting Christmas wreaths made from forest clearing products in Antalya has entered a busy season. Hundreds of Christmas wreaths are produced daily by the company, employing 100 individuals, including women and those collecting evacuation products in forest villages.
The Christmas wreaths, made from forest leftovers such as cones and tree branches, are exported at prices ranging from one to three euros. Şerife Altındal, the company owner, stated that they would work intensively for exports until the first week of December, producing 200 thousand products annually. She emphasized the use of unused forest materials for their creations, contributing to sustainable practices in the industry.
