As Valentine's Day approaches, Miami International Airport processes about 940 million flower stems, primarily from Colombia and Ecuador, making it a key hub for U.S. flower imports. Avianca Cargo, Miami's largest flower importer, has significantly increased its operations, transporting 18,000 tons of flowers over 300 flights in recent weeks. Flowers represent a major import commodity for the airport, accounting for nearly 400,000 tons valued at $1.6 billion. Agriculture specialists work to prevent harmful pests and diseases from entering the U.S., while also addressing potential economic losses due to invasive species.
"We transport flowers all year round, but specifically during the Valentine's season, we more than double our capacity because there's more than double the demand," Elias said.
"Flowers continue to make up one of the airport's largest imports, with flowers accounting for nearly 400,000 tons, worth more than $1.6 billion," Morales stated.
"Invasive species have caused $120 billion in annual economic and environmental losses to the United States..." said MIA port director Daniel Alonso.
"Around 90% of the fresh cut flowers being sold for Valentine's Day in the United States come through Miami..." according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
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