Nepal to consume 450,000 roses over Valentine's as prices rise

Nepal is expected to see a sharp surge in demand for roses during the Valentine’s Day season, with an estimated 450,000 rose stems likely to be consumed across the country during the week-long celebration, according to the Floriculture Association Nepal (FAN).

FAN said the demand for roses, particularly Dutch roses, is projected to peak between February 7 and February 14, a period widely observed as Valentine’s Week. The association expects strong sales throughout the week as consumers purchase flowers for gifting, decorations, and celebrations.

Despite the high demand, Nepal will once again remain heavily dependent on imports this season due to unfavorable winter weather conditions that have slowed down domestic production. FAN said cold temperatures delay the blooming process of roses, resulting in lower output and limiting local farmers’ ability to meet market demand.

According to FAN, domestic production is expected to supply only around 30 percent of the total demand during Valentine’s Week. The remaining 70 percent will have to be met through imports, mainly from India and other countries.