Costa Rica Flourishes in Global Ornamental Plant Market with New Opportunities
In a remarkable display of growth and expansion, Costa Rica has solidified its status in the global ornamental plant market by participating in the esteemed IPM Essen trade fair held from January 28 to 31, 2025, in Germany. With more than 15 years of dedication to this event, Costa Rican companies are once again at the forefront, presenting a rich variety of plants to over 36,000 visitors from 43 different countries.
The country's ornamental plant sector is thriving, with exports reaching an impressive $80 million by the end of November 2024. Among the primary export destinations are developed markets such as the United States, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Highlighting the importance of Europe as a key market, Mario Sáenz, Export Development Manager at PROCOMER (Costa Rica's Trade and Investment Promotion Agency), emphasized the ongoing commitment to establishing a firm foothold within traditional European markets while exploring burgeoning opportunities in emerging regions such as the Middle East.
Attending the IPM Essen has been a crucial strategy for Costa Rican businesses aiming to expand their international reach. The event not only serves as a platform for showcasing high-quality ornamental plants but also enables participants to explore emerging trends and connect with leading international buyers, thereby establishing significant business relationships.
The prominent COSTA RICA booth is a collective display of diverse offerings from various regions, including Occidente, Sarapiquí, Guácimo, and Pococí. The showcased products range from multiple ficus species to exotic orchids like Phalaenopsis, all recognized for their quality and sustainable cultivation practices—values deeply aligned with the country’s branding strategy.
A first-time participant, Agro Orchids, has brought their expertise of over 20 years in Phalaenopsis orchid production to this global stage. According to Federico Gil, General Manager of Agro Orchids, participating in IPM Essen presents an invaluable opportunity to directly engage with suppliers and potential new customers, thereby enhancing their capacity to meet global demand effectively.
Costa Rican companies have the chance to network with global buyers, including prominent names such as Adomex, Anthura, Royal Flora Holland, and Florensis, enabling them to gain insights into the latest market trends, variety innovations, and sustainability standards.
The vibrant display at the IPM Essen underscores not only Costa Rica's strengths in the ornamental plant sector but also its ongoing strategy to leverage international markets for trade growth. The sustained participation of Costa Rica in such prominent global forums illustrates the nation's adeptness at adapting to evolving market dynamics and capitalizing on new business opportunities in the ever-competitive horticulture landscape. As the ornamental plant industry evolves, Costa Rica is poised to continue playing a significant role on the international stage, showcasing its rich biodiversity and commitment to sustainable practices.