The import of flowers at Miami International Airport (MIA) recorded a 6% annual growth during the Valentine’s Day season of 2026, reaching a historic record of 100,000 tons. This airport accounts for 91% of the flowers imported into the United States, solidifying its position as a key hub in the logistics of international flowers.
Local authorities highlighted that, despite the tariffs implemented in 2025, the arrival of flowers remained strong, demonstrating the economic and strategic importance of this sector.
Miami, the epicenter of flower imports in the U.S.
The CEO of MIA, Ralph Cutié, noted that flowers have become the main foreign product arriving at the airport, even surpassing other types of international cargo. In 2025, the MIA reported its sixth consecutive annual record in merchandise imports, with a growth of 13.6%, processing a total of 3.5 million tons of cargo.
“50% of the cargo is transported by planes to other cities in the country and the other 50% is distributed by trucks, generating a significant economic impact for the region”, declared Cutié during the inspection of flowers at the airport.
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Annual flower import forecast in Miami
It is expected that in 2026 approximately 400,000 tons of flowers will arrive at MIA, mainly from Colombia and Ecuador, leading countries in flower exports to the U.S. These plants not only supply all of the United States but also reach Canada, positioning Miami as the main logistics center for fresh flowers in North America.
“Although many think of passengers, cargo moves almost three times more than travelers, and this is fundamental for the local economy”, highlighted Cutié.
Valentine’s Day boosts the demand for imported flowers
The period around February 14th is consolidating as the most important for flower imports in Miami, with growth projections of 9% by 2027, according to Raquel Regalado, Miami-Dade County Commissioner.
“Last year was challenging due to tariffs, but the airport’s investment and strategic planning allowed us to overcome the obstacles”, said Regalado.
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Colombia and Ecuador lead the export of flowers to the U.S.
Most of the flowers that arrive at MIA come from Colombia and Ecuador, countries renowned for their quality in fresh flower production. Daniel Alonso, acting regional director of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office, highlighted that agents inspect the merchandise to prevent the entry of pests and invasive species, whose economic impact could reach up to 120 billion dollars annually.
The company Avianca Cargo leads the transportation of flowers from Colombia, with a year-on-year increase of 6%, representing one in three Colombian flowers entering the United States.
MIA is not just a passenger airport; it is also a strategic logistics hub for the international economy, especially during the Valentine’s Day season when the demand for fresh flowers skyrockets. These operations generate employment, investment, and strengthen Miami’s position as a logistics and commercial hub in the Americas.
