The first-ever flower exports from Zimbabwe to China were handled by Plus0.
For years, the global flower industry has celebrated the beauty, strength and unique character of Zimbabwean blooms. Yet despite their exceptional quality, these flowers had never before reached the Chinese market. That barrier has now been removed. In a landmark achievement for African agriculture and international logistics, the first-ever flower exports from Zimbabwe to China have been successfully handled by us at Plus0 (Pty) Ltd. What was once regarded as a complex logistical challenge has become a proven and repeatable pathway, opening new opportunities for growers, buyers and exporters worldwide.
This breakthrough was made possible through collaboration, planning and a shared commitment to reaching new markets. Zimbabwe’s leading flower producers, including Tsanga, Claremont and Sunshine, provided the exceptional blooms that made the milestone possible. Hortico, renowned for its advanced cooling and handling capabilities, prepared the flowers at the correct temperatures prior to dispatch. From there, we managed the full logistics chain, ensuring that every stem was handled professionally and protected throughout its journey
Preparing and Consolidating Flowers for the Journey
The process begins at Hortico, where flowers from various farms are collected and consolidated. This centralised facility enables us to coordinate timing and quality checks with accuracy. Once the flowers are ready, we transport them from Zimbabwe to Johannesburg using our refrigerated trucking network. Our focus on maintaining the cold chain is essential. Through strict temperature management and reliable cold chain transportation, we ensure that the flowers retain their freshness, colour and structural integrity throughout the journey.
Cold Storage, Screening and Export Preparation
Upon arrival in Johannesburg, the flowers are moved into our cold rooms, where carefully managed temperature control continues. To reduce export costs for our clients, we work with a certified canine screening unit that inspects and clears the flowers for export. This method is compliant, efficient and cost effective, and it eliminates the need for more expensive mechanical screening procedures. This is one of the many ways we streamline the export process and support our clients with practical, high quality solutions.
Airfreight to Asia and Distribution into China
Once fully cleared for export, the flowers are prepared for their flight on Cathay Pacific (CX). The airline is known for reliable cargo handling for perishable goods and supports the temperature controlled environment required for successful shipment. The flowers travel from Johannesburg to Asia while maintaining strict environmental conditions. On arrival, they are imported by Marginpar, one of the most respected names in the international floral sector. Marginpar then distributes the flowers into the Chinese market, marking the first time Zimbabwean flowers have ever been available in China.
Expanding Global Opportunities Through Partnership
The significance of this achievement is far greater than a single successful shipment. It demonstrates that when the right partners come together, new markets can be opened and long standing barriers can be overcome. Zimbabwean flowers are now available to Chinese buyers, proving that international floral trade can be expanded through efficient logistics and strong partnerships. For Chinese buyers, this means access to unique, ethically grown African flowers. For Zimbabwean growers, it provides entry into one of the world’s fastest growing floral markets.
A Milestone for African Logistics and International Trade
Our role in this success reflects our dedication to providing logistics solutions that support international growth. At Plus0, we believe logistics is not merely transport. It is the creation of opportunity, the facilitation of trade and the connection of global markets. Through our integrated approach, which includes consolidation, refrigerated trucking, cold storage, export screening, airfreight management and international partnerships, we have shown what can be achieved when capability and collaboration come together.
The first ever flower exports from Zimbabwe to China represent more than a logistics accomplishment. They are proof that with the right partners and the right approach, even the most ambitious market access goals can become reality. We are proud to have played a leading role in this historic moment and look forward to further expanding routes, supporting more growers and helping African producers reach the world.