The flower industry in Yunnan hit a record $10.45 million in exports from January to November 2006.

Japan remains the largest importer of flowers from the province, with an import volume of $2.75 million last year. It is closely followed by Hong Kong, the fastest growing flower importer, with a volume of $2.7 million, nearly tripling its purchases over the previous year.

Floral exports to the ASEAN market nearly doubled to $3.62 million. Singapore and Thailand are the main importers among the Southeast Asian countries.

Exports of flowers from Yunnan have been steadily increasing as quality improves and marketing infrastructure matures.

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