Emirates SkyCargo has revealed it transported 3,590 tonnes of time- and temperature-sensitive fresh cut flowers in May 2023, a 20 per cent rise from the same period last year.

The airfreight division of Emirates states that Ecuador and Kenya are the top two export origin locations; Ecuador in particular has experienced a steady rise in flower trade in recent years, increasing its exports with Emirates SkyCargo by 21 per cent in May this year, compared to 2022.

According to Emirates SkyCargo, the Netherlands remains in both the top three export origins and import locations, with other key import locations for this commodity including the UAE and Australia, with Saudi Arabia rounding out the top four.

Dennis Lister, senior vice president – product and innovation at Emirates SkyCargo, said: “We are seeing an increased demand for fresh flowers as the wedding season in the Northern Hemisphere reaches its peak, and a corresponding spike in demand for logistics capabilities to protect perishables.

“Leveraging our industry-leading temperature-controlled technology, facilities, equipment and expert personnel, Emirates Fresh continues to offer our global customers reliable freshness, whether it’s beautiful blooms for that special day or fresh produce for the garden barbeque.

“With 500 to 600 tonnes of perishables transported on Emirates SkyCargo flights every day, we are proud to be the partner of choice that connects the global agriculture community with their customers all over the world.”

According to the carrier, perishables are the largest business by tonnage carried, uplifting an average of 22,500 tonnes of perishable commodities every month across its global network of over 140 destinations.