During the Valentine’s season, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) made a great achievement by exporting more than 60 million fresh roses to destinations overseas. Its year‑on‑year total flower export is 64 per cent more than last year which is a notable achievement, giving the city a prominent place in the global floriculture community. Popularly referred to as India’s Silicon City for its booming technology industry, Bengaluru has emerged also as one of the country’s leading exporters of premium flowers.
Valentine’s Day Demand
In the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, demand for fresh roses surged worldwide. Big cargo was carried from the airport on a large scale. In this season alone, KIA handled over 2,700 metric tonnes of flowers with packages for 26 international and 47 domestic destinations. In a good thing, Bengaluru retained its position as No.1 airport for perishable exports for the fifth consecutive year.
Global Reach
Singapore was the leading importer of roses from Bengaluru in the international market. Major destinations other than that were Kuala Lumpur, Abu Dhabi, New York and Kuwait City. This year also saw an increased reach to newer cities including Los Angeles, London Gatwick, Dallas, Toronto and Orlando, in line with the increase in global distribution of Karnataka‑grown roses.
Domestic Markets
At home, Delhi and Kolkata accounted for the highest number of key markets, fueled by both growing Valentine’s Day festivities and consumer demand in urban centres.
Infrastructure and Technology
Cold‑chain tech, streamlined customs and a specialized cargo facility at the airport mean perishable cargo passes through efficiently, they come into storage fresh and full of life as if never having seen it before.
Farmers’ Contribution
The reason behind this success story is its committed farmers based in Karnataka, specifically from regions in Bengaluru such as Devanahalli and nearby rural belts. Through modern greenhouse technology, drip irrigation and scientific nutrient management, the cultivation and quality of the roses is outstanding according to the international standards.
Millions of roses have been traded globally from every corner of the world, carrying with them fragrancy, beauty and, equally importantly, the labor, ingenuity and agricultural success of Karnataka. Bengaluru’s remarkable sales numbers this Valentine’s season prove this has become a world‑renowned flower business.
