At Proflora | The Best Flower Trade Show 2025, Colombia reaffirmed its position as a global leader in floriculture — and the Netherlands stood once again as a trusted partner. LAN Andes, actively participated in the fair, joining Dutch and Colombian companies, logistics operators, and sector associations in a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and trade collaboration. Held in Bogotá, Proflora is the most important regional event for the international flower industry, bringing together producers, buyers, and logistics providers from across the world. It serves as a key platform to exchange knowledge, promote sustainable practices, and strengthen partnerships across the supply chain.
Beeld: © LAN Andes / LAN Andes
ProFlora 2025 - LAN Andes
Colombia and the Netherlands: A Bridge in Bloom
Colombia is the second-largest flower exporter in the world, supplying markets with more than 50,000 species of flowers and supporting thousands of rural families across the country.
The Netherlands, as the leading global exporter, has long been a vital ally, offering not only logistics expertise through Schiphol Airport and the Aalsmeer flower hub, but also technological innovation, high-quality genetic material, and advanced greenhouse solutions.
Together, both countries form a bridge that connects quality and diversity in Colombia with the logistics excellence of the Netherlands, ensuring that flowers reach global consumers fresh, sustainable, and on time.
Opening Reception with Interandina and Dutch Stakeholders
To mark the beginning of Proflora, LAN Andes co-organized the Opening Cocktail with Interandina, alongside Denkers BV and Holland House Colombia – Dutch-Colombian Chamber of Commerce. The event gathered representatives from Dutch logistics companies, flower exporters, and sector associations, offering a valuable space to exchange ideas and celebrate the long-standing collaboration between both nations.
In her welcoming remarks, Ambassador Reina Buijs highlighted the continued relevance of the Netherlands as Colombia’s gateway to Europe:
"The Netherlands provides expertise, cold-chain systems and logistics so Colombian flowers reach global destinations with the same fresh, high quality."
She also underscored that Dutch expertise in circular agriculture, sustainable greenhouse management, and smart logistics continues to inspire innovation and competitiveness in the Colombian sector.
Beeld: © LAN Andes / LAN Andes
LAN Andes
The KLM–Air France Brunch: Highlighting the Role of Air Logistics
A few days later, LAN Andes and KLM–Air France hosted a networking brunch that brought together the leading Colombian flower producers and Dutch logistics companies. The discussion centered on the vital role of air transport in global flower trade, as well as on sustainability challenges and opportunities for greener logistics chains.
Ambassador Buijs emphasized how air logistics underpins the success of Colombia’s exports:
"KLM/Air France plays a key role connecting Colombia with markets, ensuring millions of flowers arrive fresh – on schedule and in excellent condition."
Today, around 60% of KLM’s cargo from Colombia consists of flowers, underlining the strong commercial relationship between both countries. The airline also leads initiatives in energy efficiency, digital traceability, and the use of sustainable aviation fuels, aligning perfectly with Colombia’s growing environmental ambitions.
Beeld: © LAN Andes / LAN Andes
LAN Andes
Sustainability as a Shared Value
Colombia’s Florverde Sustainable Flowers certification continues to demonstrate leadership in environmentally responsible floriculture, ensuring fair labor conditions, reduced water and chemical use, and biodiversity protection.
Dutch partners remain key to enhancing these efforts, sharing knowledge on carbon footprint reduction, circular production systems, and waste management, while fostering innovation that benefits both producers and consumers.
Beeld: © LAN Andes / LAN Andes
LAN Andes
A Partnership Rooted in Trust and Innovation
The events at Proflora 2025 not only celebrated a flourishing trade relationship but also reaffirmed the shared vision of Colombia and the Netherlands: a more sustainable, efficient, and globally connected floriculture sector.
Through continued collaboration between public institutions, private companies, and logistics partners, both nations are ensuring that the global flower industry continues to bloom — driven by quality, sustainability, and innovation.