Here at FMI Farms, we believe in transparency, education, and working together through industry changes. Today, we’re diving into an important topic that’s shaking things up: President Trump’s newly imposed global tariffs and their impact on floral imports, particularly from Colombia and Ecuador.
The Colombian Exception—Now History
Until recently, Colombian flowers entered the U.S. tariff-free, thanks to the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CTPA) signed back in 2012. This deal was celebrated widely because Colombia accounts for about 60% of fresh-cut flowers imported into the U.S. annually, contributing significantly to the booming wedding and event floral market.
However, as of April 2025, Trump’s administration introduced a sweeping 10% global tariff, eliminating this advantageous zero-tariff arrangement. Now, Colombian flowers—once immune to import fees—face a flat 10% increase, significantly impacting wholesalers, retailers, and ultimately, the consumer.
Ecuador’s Tariff Tale: The Journey to 17%
Ecuador’s story differs markedly from Colombia’s. Originally benefiting from the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act (ATPDEA), Ecuador exported flowers duty-free to the U.S. until this benefit ended in 2013. Ever since, Ecuadorian roses—the crème de la crème of floral imports—have been subject to a 6.8% Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) tariff.
Today, Ecuador faces even tougher hurdles, as Trump’s new tariffs stack on top of this existing rate:
- MFN base tariff: 6.8%
- New global tariff: 10%
- Combined total: 16.8% (excluding minor processing fees)
Factoring in additional standard import fees (Merchandise Processing Fee and Harbor Maintenance Fee), the effective rate now hovers around 17%, turning these blooms into significantly pricier imports.
How Will This Affect You and Your Customers?
The floral industry thrives on thin margins and fierce competition. These floral tariff hikes inevitably ripple through the supply chain. While wholesalers face immediate cost increases, floral designers, retailers, and ultimately, wedding and event clients will see adjustments in their flower budgets.
Here at FMI Farms, we understand the pressure these changes place on your business. That’s why, despite absorbing a 10% increase ourselves, we’ve committed to passing only half of that—just a 5% increase—to you, our valued customer. This decision aligns with our belief in partnership and long-term relationships.
FMI Farms’ Strategic Response
To cushion this tariff shock, FMI Farms is:
- Diversifying sourcing to ensure stable, quality supply.
- Investing in relationships with growers in multiple regions, both domestic and international.
- Adjusting product mixes and suggesting equally stunning floral alternatives when necessary.
- Keeping our customers educated and informed about any ongoing trade and policy shifts.
5 Quick Floral Facts to Keep You Sharp
Colombia and Ecuador together supply over 75% of the U.S. imported flowers.
60% of cut flowers sold in the U.S. are imported from Colombia alone.
Ecuadorian roses are globally renowned due to their ideal growing conditions—high altitude, volcanic soils, and equatorial sunlight, yielding vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms.
Trump’s new tariffs apply broadly to nearly all imported goods, affecting not just flowers but textiles, electronics, and more, significantly shifting global trade dynamics.
Historically, tariff hikes often lead to growth in local greenhouse operations—expect to see an expansion in domestic flower farms.
Stay Connected—We’re Here to Help
Industry shifts are challenging, but together we adapt and grow stronger. Make sure to follow FMI Farms on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, and don’t miss our weekly deep dives in “Tuesdays with Tony,” where we turn these conversations into engaging reels and longer, detailed videos on YouTube.
Together, we’ll navigate these changes and continue to fill events and weddings with unforgettable beauty, despite the shifting sands of global trade.
Stay blooming,
Tony Crespo
